Hit Him Again!

Hit Him Again!

You must each decide in your heart how much to give. And don’t give reluctantly or in response to pressure. “For God loves a person who gives cheerfully.”

2 Corinthians 9:7

The small country congregation had been worshiping in their old wooden church building for more than fifty years. Together they had weathered many storms, both spiritual and earthly. The timeworn structure had hosted their church assemblies, weddings, funerals, celebrations of new babies, revivals, and so much more. For the long-term members of the church, the comfortable place truly felt like home every time they came in the doors.

After all those years, though, the wonderful old building was in need of some major repairs. It was literally falling apart. The roof was leaking in a few places, which in turn had damaged the beautiful hardwood floors in the lobby. The front doors were warped by rain and wind. And the red carpet that ran down the center aisle was worn and faded.

The church leaders met to find a way to raise the funds required to make the repairs. On Sunday, the minister, stirred by very real emotion and having been connected with the congregation for nearly twenty years, made a great, moving speech.

Much to his and the other members’ surprise, the most wealthy but miserly member of the church suddenly stood up near the back and offered to kick off the fund-raising effort with a contribution of five dollars. As he spoke, a piece of plaster fell from the ceiling and hit him on the head.

A trifle dazed, the miser rose again and said, “Reckon I’d better make that fifty dollars.”

From the back of the hall came a pleading voice: “Hit him again, Lord!”

Lord, when I am less than generous with you and your people, please forgive me. Help me to open my heart and my hands out of love and compassion. Amen.