Galatians Chapter 1: Verses 7-8 (NIV)
In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God’s grace that he lavished on us…
Luke Chapter 6: Verse 38 (NIV)
“Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.”
When I think of the word “lavish” I think of the ultimate in generosity, expensive gifts, extravagant food and fancy furniture and fittings, with no shortage of anything. Paul reminds the Galatian Church that through the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross, God has lavished forgiveness and grace on us. He hasn’t done so grudgingly out of a sense of obligation, He has done it do freely and generously, in spite of what we have done – that’s how much He loves us!
In return, we too should follow the words of Jesus recorded in Luke’s Gospel. Much has been given to us, so we too should be generous with what we have in order to bless others – whether it be with our finances, our time and our talent, and it should never be done grudgingly. How can we not show the generosity, grace and love to others that God in Christ has shown to us?
Dear Lord,
How great the love, mercy and grace You have lavished upon me, regardless of how often I have let You down. Help me to be as generous as I can as Your Ambassador, in order to reflect Your goodness and kindness to others. I ask in Jesus’ Name. Amen.