Remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.

Acts 20:35b
I traveled to Angola Prison in Louisiana for the Returning Hearts Celebration there and took part in a day in which incarcerated dads and their kids spent time together. The event’s foundational verse is, “He will turn the hearts of the fathers to their children, and the hearts of the children to their fathers” (Malachi 4:6). 

God was doing a great thing by reuniting men in prison with their children. They played games, ate treats, and heard the gospel. Children earned tickets at the games and then selected a toy. The boy I was mentoring told me that he’d picked out a beauty kit for his sister because she couldn’t attend, having just turned 18 and aged out of the program. His generosity inspired me and gave me hope for the next generation. 

The key Scripture verse in Malachi closes out the Old Testament as the prophet tells of the coming day of the Lord. Whether our relationships with our earthly fathers have been positive or negative, we have the perfect heavenly Father who promises He will come again for us one day. 

 



Scripture Focus

Malachi 4

Insight

Sometimes the Lord surprises you by the generous actions of others. Be inspired more by His most giving action of coming to earth to save you!

Bible In A Year

  • Exodus 25-26
  • Psalm 38
  • Luke 2

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