There was a church that wanted so desperately to remodel their building, but was having financial problems meeting the goal to do so. The elders and deacons met to discuss how this difficulty could be solved. Many told the preacher to start preaching on giving and don t stop until the goal had been met. However, the deacon of finance told them that this would only cause more problems and that he was the one scheduled to head the table and offering the next Sunday, and he could at very least double the contribution. All the other men placed their trust in their brother and gave him their blessing. The next Sunday the deacon talked about how we show our inner being by our outward giving. Just before the plate was passed he said to the congregation, ‌During the offering I would like all to rise and as the plate begins to pass, just reach forward and take the purse or wallet from the brother or sister in front of you and give like you have always wanted, but could never afford to before today.‍ The contribution for the day did not double; it tripled.
It is true that our giving to the work of the Lord s church reflects what we feel inside. Today s sermon will look at many of those reflections that shine through by what we drop in the plate. However, I promise you will not have to stand and snatch the wallet of your brother. God wishes that you give as He has blessed you. Giving is a joyful time in the worship for Christians, because we see what God has done in our lives and it affords us a time to give back in response to His blessings. It is a time of focus on the great gift of grace that was purchased on the cross. It is a time of fellowship with each other and with our Savior. Thank you dear Father for providing a time we can joyfully give as You have generously given to us.