Growing together in Christ…as we Give! As I reflected on giving as one of ways we grow together in Christ, the words “joy-filled generosity” came to mind. This Sunday we will hear the story of the “prodigal son.” But it might well be called the story of “the giving and forgiving father.” The father in the story gives...forgives...and gives again in a lavish and extravagant generosity culminating in a joyful celebration for his son who has been “found.” As God’s people, we seek to be generous in our giving and trust in God for all our needs. We are called to be good stewards of all the gifts and resources that God puts at our disposal. There is a shift in the attitude of my heart when giving is an act of joyful generosity. Scripture tells us that God loves a cheerful (Joyful) giver. There is certainly plenty of evidence that God himself delights in giving, and in giving generously! When God himself is the reason and focus of our giving, we give in gratitude as a response to, and as acknowledgement of, HIS grace, generosity, and love for us. We love because he first loved us. As we have received, we have continued to give back. As those who have been found, rescued, and redeemed in Christ, we give in joy and with a generous heart regardless of what (time, grace, mercy, skills, resources, etc.) we give! Blessings, Matthew+
O merciful Creator, your hand is open wide to satisfy the needs of every living creature: Make us always thankful for your loving providence; and grant that we, remembering the account that we must one day give, may be faithful stewards of your good gifts; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and reigns, one God, for ever and ever. Amen. (BCP p. 259) | 
