Contribution

Read Proverbs 22:17-29

Read Exodus 35

Today we see a remarkable reversal from Exodus 32 (remember the golden calf?). Then, Israel commanded Aaron to make a god for them, and Aaron took their gold from them and made a detestable idol. That terrible sin was judged and condemned. Moses pleaded. God had mercy. Then, yesterday we read that the covenant was renewed.

God has been gracious and forgiving, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love. In fact, all these instructions about the tabernacle and its furnishings (even if they are tedious to read) show God's unconditional love. He is setting up a way to be with his people, to forgive his people, to lead and protect them always.

So, in response to all this grace, God's people have a unique opportunity. Moses comes down with the instructions for the tabernacle and asks for a free will offering for the supplies. And amazingly, without a fund drive, a catchy slogan, a few stewardship sermons and letters, and a "thermometer" to track progress, people freely bring all that is needed! We read:

"And they came, everyone whose heart stirred him, and everyone whose spirit moved him, and brought the LORD’s contribution to be used for the tent of meeting, and for all its service, and for the holy garments." (v. 21).

So too we Christians find joy in giving to our Savior and our God. With good cheer we set aside a portion of our income to fund the ministry of the church. With joy we provide food and clothing to organizations that hand them out to the poor. With great thanksgiving we give to help devastated people, such as the poor suffering people of Haiti following the earthquake. (To visit LCMS World Relief and Human Care for information about relief efforts in Haiti, or for donation opportunities, click here)

After all, Jesus has done so much for us! Suffering death and hell for us, he has given us forgiveness and eternal life. Plus, he daily and richly provides for my needs of body and life. Thanks be to God!

Ask Yourself:

For what blessings will I give God thanks and praise today?

How can I contribute time, talents, or treasures to God today?

How can I help bring this Good News of Jesus to others?

Pray:

Grant us hearts, dear Lord, to give You
Gladly, freely of Your own.
With the sunshine of Your goodness
Melt our thankless hearts of stone
Till our cold and selfish natures,
Warmed by You, at length believe
That more happy and more blessed
'Tis to give than to receive.

Lord of glory, You have bought us
With Your lifeblood as the price,
Never grudging for the lost ones
That tremendous sacrifice.
Give us faith to trust You boldly,
Hope, to stay our souls on You;
But, oh, blest of all Your graces,
With Your love our love renew.

(LSB 851:2, 4, Public Domain)

Study with me Monday,

Pastor Jon

Soli Deo Gloria!