We at All Saints are reading Matthew for 40 days; writing down all that Jesus said and did and how we can apply it to our lives. We are also praying at 10:02 for 40 days, begging God for workers to go into the harvest. (see Luke 10:2). We are also trusting God with our giving. Last Sunday, I challenged everyone who is not giving or who is inconsistent with their giving to bring $20. Our goal is 100% participation, demonstrating how important it is for all of us to do our part. Our church has some very generous givers, they are very consistent and give joyfully. Our challenge is all of us growing in our understanding of what giving does to the giver. It is how we show God that we trust him as our source, that our heart is fixed on God as the first priority in our life. I have learned a few things:
I give because the One who gave me everything instructs me to give. I don't want to be a consumer, I want to add value to people, my city and the Kingdom of God.
I give because I want to be an example to my children. I want my kids to see me give to Jesus because I want them to see that I trust him with everything I have.
I give because I believe in the mission and vision of All Saints Church. This church is in a unique position to change the spiritual climate of Seattle. I want to be a part of that and I realize my money is used to contribute in seeing that happen.
I give because I want to position myself under the protection and blessing of God. Jesus says, "Give and it will be given to you. Good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over will be put into your lap. For with the measure you use it will be measured back to you." Luke 6:38
I am looking forward to hearing the stories of people who are learning about how Jesus relates to life and living, how God answers prayer and the amazing blessing that comes when we trust God with our money.
What a journey!
Comments