March 24, 2017
Lenten Devotions – Giving as a Spiritual Discipline

Giving as a spiritual discipline becomes a way of life, not just a practice on Sunday. “Stewardship is God’s way of raising people, not man’s way of raising money.” (Dr. Wesley Wilmer and Martin Smith) Because giving should become a spiritual discipline in our lives as Christians, it requires a long-term commitment as well as a day-to-day practice if we are to become good stewards of our time, talents, and resources.

“But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s own people, in order that you may proclaim the mighty acts of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light.” 1 Peter 2:9

“When practiced consistently and intentionally, giving can become a spiritual discipline and, even more, a sacred art. When we practice giving regularly and understand that our motivation has some connection outside of ourselves, we have the opportunity to radically transform our lives, the life of another person, even the lives of entire communities. Creating a lifestyle of generosity will allow you to do good in this world. Your giving will have a ripple effect; it will be passed on to other people, other families, other communities, other generations. Your giving will change the world. When we create a lifestyle of giving, not just participating in a whirlwind of giving one weekend and then dropping the practice, our lives can become continuously filled with the blessings that come from this spiritual practice. Creating a lifestyle of generosity is more than just behavioral modifications; it is seeing the world differently every day. Taking small, consistent steps now is far better than waiting until the “right time.” (Lenten Devotional Stewardship Principles, We walk together as stewards in God’s church, ELCA, 2012, March 8)

There is this voice in our heads that constantly reminds us that we do not want others to take advantage of us. The argument becomes “Well there are plenty of organizations that give groceries, rent assistance, and clothing to people – we should just send people to them.” And this is true. There are some organizations that provide those things, but they are limited with resources, like all organizations, and they are limited with finances. Some limit how often a person or family can ask for assistance each month. Some limit their assistance to once every six months. So yes, there are organizations that assist those in need with assistance, but their resources are limited, and options for families and individuals are also limited. So, that is where churches and individuals come into play. We can give donations to places like “New Hope Ministries” and “The Salvation Army” – but often that is not enough. And it limits our contact with people with needs. When the church decides to offer programs that give out clothing, food, or other items, not only are we helping to fill in the gaps, but we are getting a chance to form relationships with people who need to hear some words of hope. My friends, giving can become contagious. If we determine that we will live a life of giving, or will begin a ministry at the church to give to those in need, this gives us opportunities to form relationships with organizations or churches who are looking to do the same – and it gives us opportunities to live out the Gospel.

This week, I want you to collect a roll of toilet paper each day to donate to Trinity’s Table. Bring in your six rolls of TP to church on Sunday, March 26.

Pastor Dave