In this week’s first reading God uses the Gentile ruler Cyrus to accomplish divine purposes. When the Pharisees try to trap Jesus, he tells them to give the emperor what belongs to him and to God what belongs to God. To gather for worship reminds us that our ultimate allegiance is to God rather than to any earthly authority. Created in the image of God, we offer our entire selves in the service of God and for the sake of the world.
Say the word stewardship in some congregations and people are protectively guarding their wallets faster than you can say “pledge card!” Unfortunately, too often we associate stewardship exclusively with issues of money. God wants a whole lot more than just your wallet… God wants your whole life! This Sunday’s gospel provides an ideal time for us to reflect on stewardship of all sorts—time (and Deacon Bri’s sabbatical), talent (and our spiritual gifts), and financial treasures (and our offerings that support TLLC’s mission).
Join us at both services for a special sabbatical sending for Deacon Bri and reception at 10:00 AM in the parlor.
Image: Young boy hugging a tree. Copyright © pinstock/E+ via Getty Images. Used by permission.