This is part two of a three-part series called “Rethinking
Generosity: Busting the church’s money myths.
Myth #2: “Giving
time and talent is enough.”
So, how many weddings have you attended in which the happy
couple stands in front of family and friends and vows before God to give
themselves to one another in covenant wedded bliss for ever and ever amen … and
then they list a disclaimer?
“I promise my life to you, darling. Well, you know, except
for all the chocolate cake, I’m keeping that all for myself. Well, I may let
you see it every now and then, even have a little nibble. Say, somewhere in the
five to seven percent range, maybe. Definitely not more than ten.”
Absurd, right? A marriage is all in, 100% of everything,
mutual love and respect and support.
So why is it, in our relationship with God, which should be
even more important, that we think there is an exception clause regarding our
money?
I have heard it throughout my ministry. People will say, “I
give my time, I give my talent, I’m here serving. So that’s enough. I don’t
have to give financially. I’m ‘covered.’”
What if the Samaritan had said that? “Hey dude, I stopped to
help. I bandaged his wounds. But pay for his continued care? Now you’re talking
crazy. It’s MY money, and I want it now!”
That would have been a-whole-nother parable.
But that’s NOT how Jesus told the story. Not only did the
Samaritan give time (stopping at the side of the road) and talent (binding the
wounds), he also gave money to the innkeeper to provide for ongoing care for
the wounded man. To be a neighbor, the Samaritan had to be “all in.”
Theologically speaking, the new life that is offered to us
in Christ Jesus requires a complete transformation that impacts every part of
one’s life. “Everything old has passed away; see, everything has become new.”
Not “some things.” Not “most things.” EVERY thing.
And everything includes your time. Your talent. And your
money. Yes, even your chocolate cake.
Myth #2 = Busted.
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