When 9 = 400

Last Sunday the Highland congregation graciously and sacrificially gave $153,000 for World and Urban missions.  The goal was $148,000.  In the midst of a difficult economy, at a time of the year when our congregation has already helped feed over 200 for Thanksgiving and provided hundreds of toys for needy children, and when many members are shopping for Christmas, it was a remarkable event.  I was humbled by the gifts.

In the hours after the collection, I was approached by two individuals, at separate times.   Because of other activities, neither had been able to get his/her contribution into the collection tray.  Both handed it to me.  Both wanted to be part of the congregation-wide giving. 

One handed me a check for $400.  One handed me an envelope filled with $9.  The $400 came from a husband and father employed in a stable situation.  The $9 came from an unemployed widow with health issues.

And it struck me how, in the Kingdom of God, $9 can be the equivalent of $400.  Both amounts represented sacrifice by the givers.  Both amounts represented prayerful and thoughtful consideration.  Both givers, I knew, would not be able to do some things or have some things because of the gift.

I am grateful to be part of a Story in which $9 can equal $400.   

[image: http://www.flickr.com/photos/curtisperry/259594524/]