Working with my high school students to encourage full participation in giving cans to the food drive has once again brought the comment, "Why not let those who have donated get the reward?". I had stipulated that we are working as a group and that if they wanted the reward then some who have alrady given cans need to text or email those who have not to remind them.
Seems to follow the verse in Hebrews 10:24 "Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds."
Each generation comes into this world with a blank slate regarding social functions. They must be taught or shown how to intermingle correctly. Operating in agape-love and acting sacrifically are not part of human nature; they are part of Godly-nature. Young people, like young Christians, often rise to the occasion AFTER they are shown the way. That is why one should keep the standard high and pure, and should point others toward the mark of a higher calling.
God came in human flesh to show us all how living could be done. Jesus made every decision sinlessly in spite of the outward influences upon Him. Scripture gives us many helps, but it helps only when one reads and implements the principles. Seeing others giving of themselves or giving thanks should spur us toward our own expressions of love and good works. AMEN
