Tax Rebate - Day 111 Month 4-21 Week 16-6

Today's Reading (Bible in 1 year)


Numbers 26, Psalm 89, Luke 18:35-19:10

https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Numbers%2026%2C%20Psalm%2089%2C%20Luke%2018%3A35-19%3A10&version=NASB1995


Tax Rebate


“I will give back four times as much!”  Zaccheus - the tax collector, a.k.a. A rip-off artist who meets Jesus, is completely transformed.  In response, he gives half of his possessions to the poor, and proclaimed he’ll give back four times what he’s defrauded from the people.  Jesus has that kind of effect on people who meet Him and are open to Him.


Yesterday, Sylvia and I were taking our trailer to an RV service shop that was about an hour away from our home.  While we were there, we asked for a few things to be done, but in addition, the caulking that surrounds the seams of the body is breaking down.  We were told that we’d likely be talking $1000 just for that portion of the job, at which I immediately told Syl, we can do it ourselves.  A short time later as we were travelling back home after dropping the RV, Syl suggested we could have just let them do it because I may have great intentions but I tend not to get to these things. I’m not the decision maker because we make these decisions together, but I watch the budget (I like working with numbers). My response as always, is paranoia about how we don’t have the funds and we are on a tight budget now.  A few minutes later, we found out about a very good charitable cause that we would love to support.  I suggested a small amount, then I suggested doubling it, and eventually we chose to give a slightly higher amount than double.   We still have a tight budget, but giving to this charitable fundraiser is about loving others, and like the motto from the church I attended for the better part of my life in Ontario:  You can’t outgive God!


One of the signs that showed Zaccheus' life was transformed - he instantly realized his need to love others in a tangible way  that he had never done before.  He displayed the heart of God.  If a person claims to be a Jesus follower, one of the greatest signs will be their love for others - in a tangible way (and not just lip service).


Have a great day

Steve

steve.d.pauls@gmail.com 


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