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The Abundant Life

Lectionary Reflection for the 24th Sunday after Pentecost, Year B, November 8, 2015
This week’s readings bring us glimpses of two widows: two women on the margins who nonetheless manage to see abundance rather than scarcity. To first century audiences, their situations would have appeared hopeless and their choices absurd—give away all your money or share your last bit of food with a stranger. How will our congregants hear these stories today? (Photo: olearys, Creative Commons)

Jesus and the Stewardship of Self

Narrative Lectionary Reflection (Year One) for February 8, 2015
This week’s gospel lesson gives us stewardship models straight from our Lord. To serve others well and to appreciate and share God’s abundance, we must also take care of ourselves. This is, of course, easier said than done. (Photo: Jonathan Fox, Creative Commons)

A Crumby Gospel

Tenth Sunday after Pentecost, Year A, August 17, 2014
Chances are that this week folks in your faith community will be reeling and/or numb from world events. Add to that the usual list of prayer needs and human brokenness and pain. So hand out this crumby gospel, these crumbs of abundant love, grace, and salvation, and don’t be stingy.(Photo: Simon James, Creative Commons)

Bible Study: Abundance & Generosity

Give your congregation a thorough grounding on what the Bible says about generosity and abundance. This free, eight-page Bible study from the United Church of Christ highlights verses from the Old and New Testaments. Suitable for one or more sessions.

Abundant Living – Re-thinking Stewardship

Perfect for “stewardship season,” Here’s a meaty five-session study course that digs into the connection between generous living and a faithful discipleship walk. Included are a study guide and links to video introductions (hosted on YouTube) for each session. The study guide contains suggestions as to how to lead each session and additional resources that you may wish to obtain to encourage further discussion. (Photo by AlicePopkorn, Creative Commons License)

The Things That Are God’s

Lectionary Reflection: October 13, 2008
One of the critical steps in moving from the illusion of control to a life of biblical stewardship is in letting go of the notion of possession.