If you truly think about it, a left hand trying to keep what it’s doing a secret from the right hand is a silly thought. Jesus uses this as an example and He might just be doing it to get a giggle (or at least a smirk) out of his followers. “But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing” (Matthew 6:3). Knowing that Jesus wouldn’t waste a word and that this was a teaching moment, what is it that He wants to get across? How would this even be physically possible?
As I type this message, I unknowingly have given myself a possible clue. Typing is something that has become instinctual. I don’t have to think about where the keys are and which finger is going to make the stretch to hit the ‘shift’ button to make a capital letter… it just happens. Why? Because someone taught me and I put in the hours staring at the flashing green cursor blinking on the black screen practicing the keystrokes. It was difficult until it wasn’t because the skill of typing had become integrated and natural—I have become a typist.
I think Jesus is suggesting that his followers (then and now) should practice responding to the needs of others again and again so that it becomes instinctual and they become generous people. The practice of giving benefits the one in need, but in turn, the giver reaps massive benefits. A quick Google search shows health benefits such as lower blood pressure, less depression, and a longer life! But the greatest benefit that Google failed to identify is a deepened sense of trust in a loving generous Father. A life marked by moment after moment of tangible experience of God’s provision is a life where perfect love has cast out all fear.
In what ways can you practice becoming a person of generosity today? Might God be asking you to give up your time? Or to respond to a financial need or give away your skills to serve? Whatever it is, allow the words of Jesus to teach you to live in His way and with His heart. Put the words of Jesus into practice until they are fully integrated into the person you have become.
Jessica Klootwyk
Discipleship Director