Sixth Sunday after Pentecost: Epistle, 2 Corinthians 8:1-9, 13-15

2 Corinthians 8:1-9, 13-15

I guess I’m venturing out on personal life territory here. I have always been greatly encouraged, and frankly a bit jealous when I read the passages that speak of the great generosity of the earliest Christians. This week’s epistle lesson puts a big spotlight on the hearts of those who gave to the needs of the infant church. And not from their abundance, but from their lack. Astounding. 

Now I know people who are generous beyond measure. And there are many ways of giving to others. But here, the great apostle is speaking of financial gifts. Honestly, I struggle with that. Early in our married life, my wife and I went through a business failure. And it didn’t just affect our little family, but our larger family, too. It took us a long time to come back from it. I feel my heart pick up speed even as I type this. Now, I do credit our Lord for His sustaining power. But I am still a bit gun shy about giving a lot. There is no law of giving under the New Covenant as there was in the Old. No minimum. I think we should ditch the term “tithe.” Misunderstood and definitely misapplied these days by many. That’s for another time.

But that’s what challenges me and pains me most. Giving for the New Testament people of God is according to their own conviction (Jesus trusts us), and we are counseled to do it with joy. “God loves a hilarious giver” is actually what Paul writes elsewhere. It’s not that I don’t give. I want to do better. I’m learning. 

Lord, may we hear You as You continually teach us. Amen!