[See Acts 4:32-37]
Sharing is unnatural and complicated.
"Dad tax!” Since I bought the tater tots, I get to have (at least) one of them. It is only fair.
Both of our girls had some of the tots in their laps in the car. Each had a different reaction to my request.
One of the girls freely gave one of her tots to me. Ethereal music started playing and a beautiful light filled the van’s cabin. It was a magical moment.
One of the girls clutched tightly onto her tots. She showed her teeth, growled at me, and ate the tots as fast as she could.
The first response is what we always hope for. The second response is what we typically get.
Sharing is not natural. It is supernatural. It is also complicated.
Even when people decide to share what they have, it isn’t easy. Will your neighbor bring your tool back if you loan it to him? Will it be in good shape if he does? Will your friend who needs to borrow your car care for it in the way you would? Will the organization you give part of your income to actually use that money wisely or be like so many that waste resources?
Sharing is unnatural and complicated, but also it is a reflection of the deep heart of our God. It is the heart of the gospel.
Though it is often hard to believe, our God is a lavish giver. Whether it is the best wine at the end of the wedding feast or the baskets of food left over after a miracle for the multitude, Jesus shows that when he gives, it is not half-hearted. He shares the good that he has, freely- not reservation, no hesitation.
That is never more abundantly clear than seeing our God the Father gladly gave the Son who was precious to him for those who- by nature- only sought to greedily hoard and stubbornly reject him.
God shared his Son to show his giving heart so that we might have access to the very same giving heart, and the freedom that comes through sharing our lives and our possessions.