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How Giving Turned This Church Around
Jon Weese was challenged to turn a struggling church around and he did so by challenging people to look outside the doors rather than inward toward themselves. He practiced radical giving of self, time, and resources and expected the congregation to do the same. Read this article published in Relevant Magazine to learn more. (Photo: […]
Usual Daily Wage
Narrative Lectionary Reflection for March 1, 2015
The parable of the workers in the vineyard is certainly applicable to 21st century disciples, too. Perhaps as individuals we can be sort of stingy with God’s grace—not to mention sharing our own resources. Do we really trust God so little that we fail to believe the divine promise of plenty? (Photo: Chris Potter, Creative Commons)
This is Good News?
Second Sunday in Lent, Year B Lectionary Reflection
March 1, 2015
The way of the cross is not about self-flagellation, destructive behaviors, or irresponsible actions. Following Jesus is about publicly proclaiming with your life’s witness that Jesus matters—more than anything else—and in him is the source and wellspring of abundant life. (Photo: Doug 1021, Creative Commons)
The Most Ignored Commandment
Author Nancy Sleeth, who along with her husband founded the non-profit organization Blessed Earth, invites all of us to reconsider how we are (or are not) keeping Sabbath. For Sleeth’s family, keeping Sabbath has been a true blessing. (Photo: Pawel Pacholec, Creative Commons)
Church Giving in a Digital World
Be sure to read this article by Matt Morris. Online giving goes hand-in-hand with your worshiping community’s digital presence–something many folks feel is no longer an option. (Photo: © momius – Fotolia.com)
Don’t Be Afraid; Be Changed
Narrative Lectionary, Transfiguration of our Lord, February 15, 2015
From the moment God names, claims, signs, seals, and delivers us in baptism, we are being transfigured. We are becoming something more, the sum of the parts, the whole that God intends for us. Even though we may not recognize this transformation, it is taking place and God sees and knows and loves us. So do not fear. Get up! There’s work to be done. (Photo: Ted, 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)
Vocational Stewardship
Fifth Sunday after Epiphany, Year B, February 8, 2015
How we approach our work, our sense of wholeness and balance, and our mission to love God and serve neighbor in all that we do is part of stewardship. It’s worth considering. It’s important to talk about. And it’s key to one’s discipleship journey and the life of faith. This week’s gospel provides one such opportunity to do so. (Photo: FaceMePLS, Creative Commons)
Four Myths about Online Giving
Has your congregation embraced online giving as part of your overall stewardship plan? If not, here’s an article that may help you counter four popular myths. (Photo: Scott McLeod, Creative Commons)
The Good Life: Psalm 111 and Stewardship
Lectionary Refleciton for the Fourth Sunday after Epiphany, Year B, February 1, 2015
In this week’s Psalm we are reminded that our worth, our purpose, and our reason for being are all found not in what we have or who we are but rather in whose we are. The good life begins in total commitment to God. It’s all about stewardship! (Photo: Axel Buhrmann, Creative Commons)
