What’s at Stake?
In a world shaped by convenience and digital transactions, we often find ourselves missing the deeper significance of certain traditions. One such tradition, altered by the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, is the act of taking the offering in church services. While the ways of giving have evolved, providing more options for individuals to contribute their tithes and offerings, there is a vital aspect we risk losing in this transition. This blog post aims to explore the importance of taking time in our worship services to corporately reflect on the goodness and generosity of God, as well as rekindle the meaning behind our giving.
Reflecting on God's Generosity
As the options for giving have expanded, it is crucial to remind ourselves that our gifts are not merely financial transactions. James Harnish, author of "A Disciple’s Path: Deepening Your Relationship with Christ and the Church", aptly reminds us that "The people of God - you and me - give to the church and to God because of our gratitude to Him. We give back to God what is God’s so that through our gifts the love of God can become a tangible reality in our world. Our giving is a reminder of the blessings God gives us and gave to us through Jesus Christ." Our giving should go beyond the act of transferring funds or meeting financial obligations; it should be an expression of our gratitude, love, and appreciation for all that God has done for us. It is through our gifts that the love of God becomes a tangible reality in our world.
Moving beyond Transactional Giving
The act of taking time to reflect on our offerings during a worship service serves as a sacred pause — a moment to collectively acknowledge and appreciate the privilege bestowed upon us to worship God with our tithes and offerings. Without these intentional times of reflection, our giving can become a mere habit devoid of deeper meaning. Similar to mindlessly withdrawing money from an ATM, setting our Spotify subscription to autopay, or logging into our bank to pay bills online, the profound significance of our offering gifts can fade away.
Recognizing God's Ownership
When we give, we proclaim that our generosity stems from an understanding that everything we have belongs to God. It extends beyond our tithe, the 10% we give to Him through the church. By giving, we acknowledge that God is the ultimate owner and provider of all our resources. Our gifts become an expression of our love, devotion, and commitment to the King of kings and Lord of lords.
Closing Thought
In conclusion, while the methods by which we bring our tithes and offerings have changed, we must not lose sight of the true essence of our offerings. Let us reclaim the tradition of bringing our offering, not as a mere transaction but as a powerful act of worship and gratitude. As we reflect on the goodness and generosity of God, may our gifts become a means to lead people to faith and maturity in Jesus Christ … as we spread His love, expand His kingdom, and equip His people, all in the light of His Gospel. May our giving be a testament to our devotion to Jesus, our Lord and Saviour, and may it serve as an invitation for others to know Him as well. Let us not settle for habit-driven giving, but instead, let us find joy and purpose in the transformative power of worshipful offering.
A Prayer of Reflection
Heavenly Father, we express our heartfelt gratitude for the way in which You care for us and provide for our needs. Your Word assures us that all our needs are met in Christ Jesus. Today, we acknowledge that the blessings You have bestowed upon us come with the privilege of giving back to You. Through our giving, may others come to know You as their Saviour and Lord. May Your kingdom be expanded, Your people be equipped, and may Your honour and glory shine through us. Teach us to find contentment and rest in You. In the name of Jesus, we pray. Amen.
Pastor Darrell Baker