Subtle reminders have popped up in recent weeks that a return to school for children of all ages is around the corner. Aisles at major stores are now stocked with school supplies. This week while I was in town I saw a group of high school girls running, training for their opening season of cross country this fall no doubt. Emails prompting me to take advantage of “back-to-school” sales are filling my inbox. Memories from my own childhood years, anticipating returning to school have crossed my otherwise occupied mind with lingering summer time activities and my own anticipation of fall. 

Even though I’m still hanging on to enjoying time catching sun rays whether on the deck with a cold glass of water or going for a walk after dinner when the temp is more bearable, I’m finding myself looking ahead to the end of hot summer days that will be consumed by fall’s cooler temps. Outside plants are beginning to slow down, showing signs of distress from July’s heat. I’m waiting for berries to ripen on bushes. I’ve been following ads from local farmers so I can plan what to purchase and “put up” for winter months. It’s been a long time since I’ve had to make a list of school supplies to purchase and admittedly, I miss those years. Yet, fortunately, I’ve found new ways to still enjoy the feelings that come from new crayons, scissors, glue, binders, shoes and clothes–all those things that make up a “back-to-school” shopping list.

We’ve got four grandchildren, all school age now. Each year we help contribute to their needs–whether  with supplies or clothes. It’s fun to participate in their excitement preparing for a new school year. For the second year, our Celebrate Recovery ministry has conducted a drive for back-to-school supplies which has allowed me to purchase items to help fill tables decorated with “all the things”–crayons, glue, sticky notes, pencils, pens, paper, binders, backpacks, etc. Generosity is abundant from our small community inside and outside the church. It’s a beautiful thing to witness.  Being a generous giver is something I know that pleases God and it’s reassuring  He doesn’t measure the size of the gift, He’s concerned with the attitude of hearts. 2 Corinthians 9: 7 says “Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.”

Our small community always has needs. Staying connected with people through friendships, the workplace, church, school, and even social media allow us to be aware how each one of us can help. When a call comes from the Family Impact Center that shelves are empty, our community rises to the challenge to fill them over and over again. When hardships come to families with unexpected medical expenses, go fund me accounts are created and soon each goal is met with monetary gifts. These and more are beautiful examples of community in action!

I also believe a generous community exemplifies the principle stated in Acts 4: 32 “All the believers were one in heart and mind. No one claimed that any of their possessions was their own, but they shared everything they had.”

It’s wonderful to be part of a generous community. It’s heartwarming to see evidence of everything families and local businesses do to help care for the needs of folks who need a hand up. As you and I continue to enjoy everything that is provided for us, may we always be on the lookout for ways to help someone else. Struggles are real. Hardships come, sometimes with no warning. Opportunities to give and serve are always among us. May we have eyes to see, ears to hear, and hearts that respond with open hands to fill someone’s emptiness. Together, let’s be a community of “like minded” believers taking action to unite as generous people!