10 Now God who provides seed for the sower and bread for food will provide and multiply your supply of seed and will cause the harvest of your righteousness to grow. 11 You will be enriched in every way so that you may be generous on every occasion, which is producing through us thanksgiving to God, 12 because the service of this ministry is not only providing for the needs of the saints but is also overflowing with many thanks to God. 13 Through the evidence of this service they will glorify God because of your obedience to your confession in the gospel of Christ and the generosity of your sharing with them and with everyone. 14 And in their prayers on your behalf, they long for you because of the extraordinary grace God has shown to you. 15 Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift!

REFLECTIONS

Written by Helen Troung

With Christmas Day just five days away, I hope those reading or listening have their gifts in order! This period can often feel overwhelming, not just from the flurry of social gatherings but also from the pressure of choosing the perfect gift for our loved ones. It's not so much about the time spent shopping; it's the mental energy invested in selecting something thoughtful (and that they don’t have already!), rather than opting for something random.

But in all the fuss of our quest for the perfect gift, it’s important to remember the one gift that exceeds them all – God’s gift of Jesus Christ in whom we are saved by grace through faith! (vs 15)

In this passage, Paul continues to encourage the Corinthians to give generosity, reminding them that all we have comes from God. He is the one who supplies and multiplies seed for the sower and bread for food (vs 10). When we give generously, we mirror God's own generosity, reflecting His love and kindness in tangible ways. These acts go beyond meeting physical needs – they glorify God and strengthen the faith of others (vs 13). This made me think about how I can give generously in ways beyond material gifts, such as taking the time to re-connect and encourage a dear sister in Christ.

As we enter this Christmas season, let us remember the ultimate gift we have already received – the gift of salvation through Jesus Christ. As John 3:16 says, "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life" (NIV). And just like any true gift, it has been given to us freely, without strings attached.

This Christmas, instead of focusing our energy on finding the perfect present for others, may we be filled with thankfulness for the perfect gift we have already received through Jesus. Let this truth shape how we engage with our friends and family, and if the opportunity arises may we share the good news with them. And may we do ALL of this with hearts full of thankfulness and praise! "Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift!" (vs 15)

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Helen is a member of our Fairfield Morning congregation.