Here it comes.

This is a week I have both been excited for, and dreading. Excited because of the Celebration Generosity, a real way to see the difference my financial gifts will make in the world. And with my slow release of the hold money has on me, it was a step up a percentage point (or more) in giving to His kingdom. My goal, actually, was a full 10% this weekend, knowing that I am giving to people that need it so much more than I do. I don't live in a garbage dump (unless you count my son's room), I don't live in a 300 sq foot hut with a dirt floor (unless you count my daughter's room), I don't live in low poverty East Aurora (unless you count my wife's job - FYI: she works at Johnson School in East Aurora), and I do not live somewhere longing for more (I'm out of ideas - insert a joke here about me).

Now my dread - bills. Holy smokes, do we have bills. I knew a week like this would arrive one day, and now it has reared it's ugly face and is lining up to crush us in the dirt. This economy is not helping at all, and a few new surprises are going to make this week a major struggle. Already, I am thinking "Can we do this 10%? Can we even do 5%?" I am trying so hard to have the faith that God will keep us safe, provide that the pantry and fridge will be full of food, have gas in our cars and other basic needs will be met. If only I could walk into Jewel, grab a gallon of milk, say "God bless you" and the checkout and keep going, my purchase price satisfied with simple bit of grace. Or maybe work on my Jedi skills and pull a little trick so the register rings up my box of Ho Ho's at 4 cents. Oh wait.....Star wars is Satan. (I hope you get as much joy out of the link that I do. I am still not sure if they are serious, of if that's a joke. But it does my the nerd in me smile.)

Anyway - all I can ask is that God keeps us safe. And a little of the providing would be a nice gift too.