In Exodus 35-38, the people were given directions by Moses to provide offerings so that the tabernacle could be built, as the LORD required. Interestingly, the phrase “those who were willing” kept repeating throughout the passage. The result? In Chapter 36 v6—Moses tells everyone to stop bringing their sacrifices. Imagine that—so many people were willing to sacrifice that Moses had to say, “That’s it! We’re good…. don’t bring anything else!”

Over the years in my work with schools, I have been involved in setting up and closing graduation ceremonies. Two years in a row, due to weather circumstances, we had to switch sites. It created worry—would we be able to have graduation? The day came and the ceremony went smoothly. Snaps were chatted, twitter was tweeted. Social media posts were liked. Everyone left happy. Then reality sat in after the ceremony was over--only two people remained behind with me to pick up chairs. Over 1500 chairs needed to be stacked and put away. I muttered. I grumbled. I even decided to occasionally kick at unsuspecting chairs during the long hours of work.

The next year weather struck and caused worry once again. Side note: we avoided using outside venues after that! Again, the twitters tweeted, and the chats were snapped. However, after a well-placed request for help prior to the ceremony, the stacking of chairs took less than 20 minutes this time. No one who helped grumbled. In fact, so many people helped that the work was done quickly, easily, and no unsuspecting chairs were kicked.

What made the difference? The willingness of people to help. They were willing to help because they were happy and thrilled to see their kids, friends, and family members graduating. It was an opportunity to express gratitude for what had taken place.

The nation of Israel had willingness to sacrifice because they were grateful to God for HIS deliverance—so much so that they didn’t want to stop giving. By focusing on gratitude when we realize what God has done through Jesus, our willingness will likewise increase. We want to give more and more because we realize we have received so much. Things and tasks don’t become a burden but rather a joy. Our gratitude spurs our willingness. And when God’s people are willing—He accomplishes great things!