Bring an offering

No one may appear before me without an offering. -- Exodus 34.20

Two aspects of this requirement hit me:

1. A sacrifice is necessary. We can't appear before God on our own merits.
2. There is an appropriateness to bringing a gift whenever we appear before the Lord. He gives us everything. It is appropriate to bring him something.

For some time I try to give an offering whenever the opportunity presents itself. Even if it's not my church. Even if I've already given. It protects my heart against greed and ingratitude.

Father, thank you for providing the Sacrifice for our sins, so that we may come before you. Give us grateful hearts even in times of difficulty and lack. XP Amen.