Running Over

Luke 6:37-38 – Judge not, and you will not be judged, condemn not, and you will not be condemned, forgive and you will be forgiven; give and it will be given to you; good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be put into your lap. For the measure you give will be the measure you get back. (RSV)

Frequently, I have to go out late at night. When I am returning home, as I pass the local doughnut shop, I sometimes succumb to the temptation to stop for a delicious cruller (a sinful indulgence) to munch on, as I finish my day with a few pages from some fascinating mystery story. Since I always go to this same shop, I am well known to the gentle lady usually on duty. Last night, I asked for my favourite, an orange cruller, and then noticed that she crammed into a bag two delicious muffins and a walnut cruller as well, filling the bag to bursting — all for the price of one cruller! Since it was so late in the day, my friend said, "I won't be able to sell them now anyway." Happily, I got into my car to go home, and, as I did, I remembered today's verse. From Jesus, too, I have always received more than I could ever pay for! He paid for my sins on Calvary, and, every day of my life, He, or the Father, has provided for my earthly needs with full measure, pressed down, and running over. How good God is! As I often say, "Thank God He never gives us what we deserve; He gives us so much more."

Prayer: Lord, how generous You are to us! You give us life, forgiveness, and freedom to enjoy Your gifts with a light heart, and all You ask in return is our love. Our hearts swell with love even as we think of You. We praise You, we bless You, and we surely do love You. Amen.