Blood Donor
Being a giver is important in our family. As a young father of three, I began donating to various ministries and nonprofit organizations while our kids were still small. As parents, we taught our three to be givers, too. One of our kids ‘baptized’ a sibling with the name, Munchkin. So now we had a munchkin in our home. Our family learned to give away clothing items they no longer needed or used. We’d line our hallway with 3-4 large bags and then head out to the local shelter. Almost without exception, a few days later, a neighbor would come to our door with 2-4 large bags of goodies (clothing) for our kids. They would be elated.
As our kids grew, they also continued their giving practices. One year we learned that our Munchkin had a church sponsor from another state. She would receive toys, Christmas cards, school supplies, etc. But the biggest surprise to us all, was when Munchkin received a beautiful porcelain doll. We were all in amazement that someone who didn’t even know us would give such a precious gift. The sponsor was in her early 70s and was surely making a 10-11 yr. old mighty happy. But happiness in itself isn’t much unless it’s shared. This Munchkin grew to also become a sponsor. And even when times have been very difficult for her as in not making enough to ‘make ends meet,’ not having a job, etc., she has found ways to continue her giving.
There are so many ways to give, we simply can’t run out of ways on how to. The first step is simply a desire to do so. Then, there needs to be a love for it. Finally, we need to carry it out. I’ve got to say that as a giver who’s taught his kids to give, I’ve sometimes found myself saying, ‘But you didn’t have to give that, or that amount…” And what I’ve grown to learn is that my kids have learned to out-give me. They’ve made me proud. They’ve learned to go over and beyond just to help others. They’ve learned that what they own isn’t everything there is in life. They’ve learned that life consists of more than accumulating things. They’ve learned that others are so important that they can’t be brushed aside “just because…”
If we’re committed to doing something for others, then those people depend upon us without knowing it. I’m not talking about spoiling people. I’m sharing on the importance of being a consistent giver; someone dependable. That if we don’t do our part for Christ, then things will not get done.
Givers can change lives. I’ve read of blood donors who have given blood hundreds upon hundreds of times. Others have given a few dozen times. And yet others, maybe only once or twice. These givers have saved countless lives. They have brought joy and gratitude to friends and family members alike. They’ve given hope where none existed or when it was almost shattered. I know of a man who gave only once and yet changed the lives of millions, even billions; in fact, He changed the course of history. He didn’t donate His blood as regular donors do; He didn’t spill His blood either, but he shed it for all humanity. Spilling, refers to it being accidental; shedding refers to intentional. Christ gave His all for you and me. He put aside all His riches; His Kingship, His royalty, and His powers to become poor for our sakes. He gave His blood as well as His life for us. He not only paid for us, but He was willing to take our blame and go die for us. Reader, He died for you in your place. Gave you the best gift ever: Forgiveness of sins, Eternal Life, and Fellowship (Friendship) with God.
Whether you’re a Munchkin or a giant, or even a regular Joe/Jane, become a giver. Become a life saver. Accept the Life -saving work of Christ and join the Family.
Ask Jesus into your heart right now. Say, “Dear God, please forgive all my sins. Thank you for dying in my place and shedding Your blood for me. Come into my heart and change my life. Make me a child of Yours.” In Jesus’ Name, Amen.