Above and Beyond

As a kid growing up in the 80’s and beginning adulthood in the 90’s, I was a massive Jerry Rice fan. Jerry is a Hall-of-Fame wide receiver who played for the San Francisco 49ers, the Oakland Raiders, and the Seattle Seahawks. In the course of his career, he amassed unbelievable receiving numbers. He’s the all-time leaders in yards with 22,895. That’s over 5,000 yards more than the number two receiver. He has 1,549 catches which is 100 more than number two. He also leads the all-time touchdowns mark for receivers with 197. That’s 40 more than anyone else in history, and his 207 total touchdowns also leads the all-time mark. Needless to say, Jerry Rice was like no other receiver in the history of the game.

But how did he get there? He wasn’t the fastest receiver in the game. He wasn’t the biggest. He was, however, the hardest working. Jerry Rice’s workout routine was the stuff of legend. He had a workout that would destroy the normal man. Part of his routine was running hills for up to 2-and-a-half hours. He would work out every day from 7am to 1pm. He was committed to his craft, and he always gave 110%. Many who attempted to work out with Rice would often comment on how they couldn’t finish the workout. He didn’t just want to take a paycheck. He wanted to give everything he had….even when he didn’t have anything left to give. His heart was all about going above and beyond for what he loved.

In 2 Corinthians 8:1-5, Paul writes about the Macedonian churches, who gave generously despite their own poverty. He says, "In the midst of a very severe trial, their overflowing joy and their extreme poverty welled up in rich generosity. For I testify that they gave as much as they were able, and even beyond their ability."

These believers didn’t just sit in their faith and do nothing. They took what they had, and they gave above and beyond. Their example challenges us to consider how we can give above and beyond, not just financially, but with our time, talents, and resources. They loved God deeply, and they loved His mission deeply. Their hearts were about giving 110% for what and WHO they loved.

As disciples of Christ, we're called to live lives of radical generosity. This doesn't mean we give recklessly, but rather that we trust God to guide us in our giving and to provide for our needs. How can you step out in faith and give 110% for the mission of Jesus? Are we willing to give up our daily Starbucks, our online games, or our expensive toys in order to see the mission of Jesus accomplished? God calls us to be cheerful givers. Let’s find true joy in giving of ourselves and our resources to make Christ known to the nations.