There is a beauty in the way tangata whenua peoples connect with the land. Their knowledge of plants, seasons and the rhythm of nature remind us that God’s wisdom is woven into creation.

Through denying ourselves in this season of Self-Denial, we seek not only what is good, but God’s very best for all of life. This includes a whole-of-life and whole-of-world response.

It can feel like the world is on fire, and chaos and evil have the upper hand. We see countries at war, the cost of living seems to always be rising, leaders are being exposed as untrustworthy, and failures in ministry and government seem to be growing.

We do not ignore these things as we come before God and one another. But rather than throw our hands up in despair, we lift them in prayer and know that God’s power, love and mercy will prevail.

The Self-Denial Appeal is over 130 years old. It is a tradition that hundreds of thousands of Salvationists have taken part in since the time of William and Catherine Booth.

Those who have gone before us, and we, do not undertake it simply as part of a religious observance.

We practise it as part of a rhythm of devotion to our Lord, because it brings the Word of God and the love of Jesus to many in great need around the world. In sacrificing part of our lives, our faith grows and new life grows in others.

Jesus knew the only hope for humanity was through the offering of his life. He held nothing back so that his creation might be reunited with him through his blood. He did this because he loved completely.

The Self-Denial Appeal is an invitation for followers of Jesus Christ to partner with our Lord. It is an opportunity to follow his example by giving and living sacrificially, motivated by love.

Partnering with God in this way brings us into a richness and rhythm of life in step with him. This is how we were created to live. And as we reach out to others in love, we ourselves are filled with ever-greater love. As we live as God commands, a truly satisfied life is revealed.

This is not simply about money or projects. It is about living out the very good God intended for us—one that speaks and acts in love.

From the very beginning of creation to every human life today, God has been working out his plan of restoration through love. Be it rulers or rebels, lawmakers or lawbreakers—no one is beyond his reach.

One day, “at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord” (Philippians 2:10–11, NIV).

This great heartbeat of love is calling us even now. Will you answer?

• What questions do you still have as you reflect today?
• How might your giving demonstrate that you are motivated by true love?
• What are we to expect from God as we bring our offering of love?
• How might we respond with true worship?

Dear Lord Jesus, in all that we do, we want to honour you. Bless the mission of The Salvation Army around the world, transforming lives with the abundant life only you supply. We offer all we have to you, knowing your free gift of grace is freely given and freely received. We bless your name and call you Holy, Peacemaker, King of Kings, Lord of Lords, worthy of all. Please look upon your children and show us your great love, we pray.

In Jesus’ name. Amen.