Set Apart July 24 Devotional

LEVITICUS 23:22 | ²² “When you reap the harvest of your land, you shall not reap to the very edges of your field or gather the gleanings of your harvest; you shall leave them for the poor and for the alien: I am the Lord your God.”

Justice compliments gratitude, as generosity fulfills success. When we celebrate God’s gifts to us, we must remember those who have less, for whom life is often a struggle for survival and not an experience of surplus. This beautiful verse builds a justice rhythm right into the work of harvest. In order for everyone to celebrate God’s provision, there has to be a willingness to share, because we live in a world of uneven distribution. Farmers were instructed not to harvest all their produce but to leave some for the indigent. Part of the holiness of God, which we seek to reflect is His concern for the poor and the alien, and the disconnected. Every harvest day was an opportunity to bless others, just as every gift to God’s work now can lift the fallen and help the struggling.

How good are you at sharing? Do you glean to the margins or plan for generosity?

Gracious God,

Our work can bless others when we have practices of generosity. Keep our eyes open to the needs of those around us.

Amen.