The second in our series of Lent Devotions comes from Michael Ramsey, Habitat Ireland's Finance Manager.
Many weeks have now passed since the Christmas Season. A time of family gatherings, parties, gifts, carol singing, and for most people a very busy but enjoyable time. A time of great celebration, as we celebrate the birth of the Lord Jesus.
Easter is now approaching, and so often a much quieter celebration for many, but what an important time this is.
“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only son. There is no bigger gift given to humanity.” - John 3:16
During this Easter period, let us take time to think about what we can give. In a world of turbulence, let us show love, acceptance and kindness whenever we can.
I was very blessed to join the finance team at Habitat for Humanity nearly twenty years ago. In that time the focus has changed from house-building in Northern Ireland to what we focus on now – building sustainable communities through ReStore, holding accredited training courses for local people, global citizenship education and continuing to raise funds for our long-term partner programmes.
These activities provide excellent opportunities for us to give. In ReStore, for example, we have so many wonderful volunteers. Some are retirees, others are from partner organisations or come on placements. These folk give of their time and talents most generously, in some cases for many years. For their kindness, they receive new friendships, a sense of community and for many development and personal skills.
Whilst on Global Village trips to Romania, I have always been humbled by the kindness and graciousness of the people we are there to serve. People who are showing us such hospitality, whilst often living as a family in one or two rooms, with no home comforts that we would expect. These experiences really do make you assess and appreciate how fortunate we are, and what blessings we have been given.
Most of us lead busy lives, and the daily work and activities consume most of our time, but Deuteronomy 15:10 is a great guide to our giving: “Give liberally and ungrudging when you do so for on this account the Lord your God will bless you in all your work and in all that you undertake".
This giving can be through volunteering, financial support, praying, or just showing kindness and compassion to others.
Please pause, reflect, pray, and think about what you can give this Easter.
