The Legacy of Faithful Giving
OPENING PRAYER:
Heavenly Father, as we begin this journey of understanding legacy, open our hearts to the lessons of faith and generosity. May Your Spirit guide us to see how our actions today can impact eternity. Amen.
At Caesarea there was a man named Cornelius, a centurion in what was known as the Italian Regiment. He and all his family were devout and God-fearing; he gave generously to those in need and prayed to God regularly. One day at about three in the afternoon he had a vision. He distinctly saw an angel of God, who came to him and said, “Cornelius!” Cornelius stared at him in fear. “What is it, Lord?” he asked. The angel answered, “Your prayers and gifts to the poor have come up as a memorial offering before God.
REFLECT:
The story of Cornelius is a powerful testament to the impact of faithful giving. Cornelius was a man of influence and authority, yet he chose to use his resources to bless others. His actions were not just noticed by those around him but by God Himself. This narrative challenges us to consider how our own acts of generosity are perceived by God. The message highlights that creating a legacy is not just about financial wealth but about the heart behind our giving. Cornelius's story reminds us that God values the intention and sacrifice behind our gifts more than the amount.
In our lives, we often measure success by worldly standards, but Cornelius's example teaches us that true legacy is built on faithfulness and generosity. Whether we have much or little, God calls us to give with a heart that seeks to honor Him. This can be a challenging perspective, especially in a culture that often prioritizes personal gain over communal well-being. Yet, as we reflect on Cornelius's story, we are encouraged to trust that God sees and values our sacrifices, using them to further His kingdom in ways we may not immediately see.
I WILL STATEMENT:
I will create a legacy through my commitment to All Things New.
CLOSING PRAYER:
Lord, thank You for the example of Cornelius and the reminder that You see our hearts. Help us to give generously and faithfully, trusting that You will use our offerings to make all things new. Amen.