Jesus looked up and saw rich people putting their gifts into the treasury; He also saw a poor widow put in two small copper coins. He said, “Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put in more than all of them; for all of them have contributed out of their abundance, but she out of her poverty has put in all she had to live on.” Through the media and Facebook, we hear the thoughts, the inner feelings and the continual complaints of many. Whether it is controversy over family, politics, religion, or health issues, discontent is continual. We constantly hear, “Why doesn’t someone do something about it?” From the 1971 hit, The Nickel Song, “They’re only putting in a nickel, and they want a dollar song. They’re only putting in a nickel to get rid of a lot that’s wrong.” We live in a very privileged country with many freedoms and blessings. We live in reasonable comfort, with the ability to travel, to shop for all the necessities of life and much, much more. We have the freedom to vote for our governments and to run for office. We have the freedom to worship in the church of our choice. We have the freedom to live in a peaceful country in safety and security. Through all of these blessings, are we a happy, contented population, giving our thanks each and every day?? Yes, some folk are happy and contented, but the majority does complain loudly and often, sometimes without cause or forethought. Is this you? What are you doing to improve the lives of those around you? Are you only putting in a nickel, or are you volunteering for meals on wheels, delivering groceries for others, shovelling snow, visiting or phoning a lonely soul, perhaps manning a Salvation Army kettle at the mall? Are you only putting in a nickel, or are you running for office or campaigning and supporting a candidate for local or other elections? The Government is you and me. Are you only putting in a nickel, or are you attending a place of worship to hear Jesus’ word? All churches need people to worship and tithe. Churches and pastors are always there when we need them. Our God will return to you, far more than you contribute. Are you only putting in a nickel, or are you generous in your giving to needy causes? Charities require generous givers. Giving can be just a kind word, an encouraging word, a simple act of kindness. Also, giving is passing on a bit of yourself, with a smile, to someone in need. We can change what is wrong, but it takes commitment. Are you a taker or a giver? Are you only putting in a nickel, but you want a dollar song? Jesus said, “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” If we put in a dollar, we’ll all receive a five-dollar song.
Mardelle and Deacon Jack Robson, Last Mountain Anglican Parish
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Disclaimer: opinions expressed are those of the writer.
