Though it would have been a wild surprise to them, Christians who lived in Macedonia many centuries ago continue to influence people today. In today’s Message About Purpose, I’ll direct your attention to 2 Cor. 8:1-5. Paul wrote: And now, brothers, we want you to know about the grace that God has given the Macedonian churches. 2 Out of the most severe trial, their overflowing joy and their extreme poverty welled up in rich generosity. 3 For I testify that they gave as much as they were able, and even beyond their ability. Entirely on their own, 4 they urgently pleaded with us for the privilege of sharing in this service to the saints. 5 And they did not do as we expected, but they gave themselves first to the Lord and then to us in keeping with God’s will. Several challenging ideas jump out of these verses and nail me right in the heart. Notice the way verse 2 describes their attitude. They were enthusiastic and faithful despite hardship. They were not so preoccupied with what they didn’t have that they missed the chance to do something with what they did have! And notice also from verses 3 and 4 that Paul didn’t have to pressure them. Instead, they willingly gave above and beyond what their means would suggest. I think the secret to the wild way in which these people gave is seen in verse 5 - their giving was a manifestation of worship and an expression of fellowship. Let’s not only learn about their example but follow it!