God Sighting: A Teen’s Generosity – Living Out Biblical Giving

In the fall, Sheridan received an inspiring financial gift from a teenager: a check for $90.16, designated for the ELCA Disaster Response Fund for Hurricane Relief. Pastor Greg, who knows the parents well, thanked them for raising such a wonderful child. Their response was heartwarming and definitely a “God Sighting.”

They shared that they’ve always taught their children to work hard and live according to the Bible’s teachings—giving 10%, saving 10%, and living off 80% of their income. They explained how their youngest worked all summer and the family had discussions about how to direct their giving. One Sunday morning in worship, they heard about the LDR efforts to bring relief to hurricane victims. The child leaned over and said, “I want to give to that.”

At home, they had a lesson on how to write a check, and the check for $90.16 was made out to the church and designated for “Hurricane Relief.” The entire gift went to Lutheran Disaster Response.

A beautiful note in this story is the concept of “first fruits” giving. This was the first check ever written by this individual, and the “first portion” was given in benevolence, just as God would have it. Do you give first? Do you give proportionally? We pray it be so.

By Pastor Greg Bouvier