Good day! Well, last week we tackled the Prosperity Gospel. Tackling frustrations with churches and pastors obsessed with money over heart. As per Casey's suggestion, what about the other side? Are you frustrated with this world and want to change it for the better? Giving to churches and non-profits that are helping serve the poor and encouraging and building people up and the greater community, sharing the true gospel? Some very interesting case studies and takes on how others give and receive.
Word! Thanks for joining this week. Let me say something a bit counterintuitive, personally, I'm not telling you what to do with the money currently in your checking and savings account. If you believe in God, a challenge. Pray on it and ask God, where and to whom should I give? Pray it everyday. Listen for the quiet/inner voice. If you are bold enough to listen and act like that lady that left her money on Casey's window, get ready to be amazed. As Pastor Rick Warren says, you can't out give God. Whether you like him or not, Rick claims to give away 91% of his income. 91%?! You and me, may be challenged to give 10% or more. And for any of you not working right now, we lift you. I pray for the right jobs to come your way. Personally, I know how disheartening that feels. Once you are earning again, you know good it feels to help others.
Oh, and to the Fringe, thank you so much for letting us know your frustration about money and churches. I hear Rod in saying we need to be careful to judge. On your side, you get hurt by pastors that are more about themselves and less about Jesus and living his True Word. Loving God. Loving Others. So this one is for you Fringe, if a pastor thinks they need a G6 private jet, here is my recommendation. Fly coach. Take the savings and give it to the poor. Jesus rode into town on a donkey, not a stallion or a chariot. See Mark 11: 1-11. So pastors more about money, put that in your spiritual money pipe and smoke it.
Ending on a song note, HotRod had a great suggestion. Going secular again to help make a greater point, this is Give It Away Now, by the Red Hot Chili Peppers. Give them some love and add it to your playlist. Every time you hear it, ask yourself, how am I doing in giving it away and helping others? Now, go, serve, give, love...
