generosity gospel

Renée Antrosio – June 6, 2023 1 Comment

Today’s scriptures are about money, which is both surprising and fitting, since tonight’s leadership team meeting is focused on financial stewardship. The psalmist describes a blessed life, where honoring the Lord and adoring God’s commandments brings true happiness. 

Their descendants will be strong throughout the land. The offspring of those who do right will be blessed; wealth and riches will be in their houses. Their righteousness stands forever. Psalm 112:2-3 (CEB)

Jesus had neither descendants, nor houses, nor wealth. What was his financial policy? When they tried to entrap him, opponents asked him about money. They wanted to arrest him; anything you say can and will be used against you in a court of Law.

“Should we pay taxes or not?”  Mark 12:14b (CEB)

This time, Jesus does not quote scripture, nor does he tell a parable. Instead, Jesus opts for the object lesson. 

Since Jesus recognized their deceit, he said to them, “Why are you testing me? Bring me a coin. Show it to me.” And they brought one. He said to them, “Whose image and inscription is this?”

“Caesar’s,” they replied.

Jesus said to them, “Give to Caesar what belongs to Caesar and to God what belongs to God.” His reply left them overcome with wonder. Mark 12:15-17 (CEB)

Everything we have comes from God, belongs to God, returns to God. And not observing the tax code could be problematic. The psalmist describes how the righteous handle money.

They shine in the dark for others who do right. They are merciful, compassionate, and righteous. Those who lend generously are good people— as are those who conduct their affairs with justice. Ps. 112:4-5 (CEB)

The mission is to shine light on the path for others who want to do right. Mercy and compassion, generosity and justice. These are the words that should describe our financial policies. 

They won’t be frightened at bad news. Their hearts are steady, trusting in the Lord. Their hearts are firm; they aren’t afraid. In the end, they will witness their enemies’ defeat. They give freely to those in need. Their righteousness stands forever. Their strength increases gloriously. Ps. 112:7-9 (CEB)

Dealing faithfully with our finances means confronting our fears- bad news and enemies. Physical deterioration, systemic sin, and the great unknown. May our hearts be steady and firm, trusting the Lord, unafraid. May we give freely to those in need. May we be counted among the righteous. -Renée