Luke 8:1-3: The grace of receiving.

It was Jesus who taught that ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive’ (Acts 20:35) and His life demonstrated the point. He was constantly giving to others. This short reading illustrates some of the ways in which He held out His Hands, in preaching and healing, in mentoring others, and  in delivering from evil spirits. But Jesus, who made giving a lifestyle, had the grace to receive. He so humbled Himself that He made Himself vulnerable; putting Himself in a place where He needed the help of others. ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive’ and our Lord gave others the joy and privilege of ministering to Him.

Maybe you always want to be the strong one? You show your power by constantly giving. People need you, but you are okay alone. Perhaps you have cultivated the image of the independent person who doesn’t need anyone else? It will be for your good and for your growth if you will learn to not simply hold out Hands that give, but also which receive. In the past, at times, pride has kept me from accepting offered help, even when I desperately needed it. ‘No I’m fine thanks. I can manage. I don’t want to trouble you.’ What masqueraded as concern not to abuse the good will of others was in fact sinful, blatant pride. All pride  must go to the cross if we would grow to be like Jesus. Christ-like people are prepared to receive as well as give. It is a part of their generosity to allow others to have the blessing of giving. But also, they admit they need help. We can be like Jesus both in giving and receiving.

Jesus did not go it alone. He worked with teams of men and women ( and today’s reading shows just how far His influence went.

Prayer: Lord Jesus make me more and more like you in every way.