Giving is the process of sacrificing one’s self and/or possessions for the benefit of another. This act is an incredibly selfless practice that asks for no compensation in return. The writer Maya Angelou further explains, “I have found that among its other benefits, giving liberates the soul of the giver.”

This description of giving can be well-portrayed by families deciding to make their loved one a donor. Without any physical gain of their own, a family who chooses to donate can help meet the medical needs of another. In addition, this decision supports the family in their grieving process by knowing that their loved one continues bringing goodness and hope to another by living in a new way.

Most importantly, though, the act of giving is a true example of God’s love. In John 15:13, Jesus states, “Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. “ How true is this then when, with organ and tissue donation, one gives life to a complete stranger!

Let us pray:

Lord, You are the greatest giver of all and have demonstrated this through all the sacrifices You have made for us. Mold us to have Your giving heart, and guide us forward as we continue to enhance the life-giving process of donation. We ask this in Your name, Amen.