Romans 12:3
Stop.
Take a deep breath. Think about all the people you’ve been around this week: family, friends, coworkers, classmates, community members, and more. Take a moment to pray for them and ask God to make you a force for grace and mercy in their lives.
Listen.
For by the grace given to me I say to everyone among you not to think of yourself more highly than you ought to think, but to think with sober judgement, each according to the measure of faith that God has assigned. – Romans 12:3
Reflect.
In worship on Sunday, we will hear from Paul’s letter to the Romans. We’re talking about this valuable epistle all week in our devotions as we lead up to the final Sunday in our sermon series. This Sunday, you’ll also have the powerful opportunity to put your faith into action by turning in your Statement Of Intent and making your financial commitment to the mission of Easter.
It can be hard to talk about money. We’re often surrounded by opinions on what we should do with our money; hearing about it at church as well can feel exhausting. But honestly, that’s exactly why we need to talk about money at church. Otherwise, we lose track of the truth that our finances are another place where we get to worship God and serve our neighbors.
While Paul doesn’t talk specifically about money in this verse from Romans 12, which we’ll hear on Sunday, his instruction helps us consider why we share God’s gift of money instead of keeping it all for ourselves. “I say to everyone among you not to think of yourself more highly than you ought to think,” Paul reminds us. When you make a financial commitment to give to Easter, you put that teaching into action. You recognize that what God has given you is meant to be shared with your community, with your congregation, and to God’s glory. You realize that you don’t need to keep everything for yourself, but because you’re part of a community, you get to give your money away.
It is a responsibility and a joy to think of others, to be a part of the work of the church, and to live out your faith through your giving.
Pray.
God, thank you for all you have given me. Remind me of all those who need your love and care through my giving and service. Guide me to generosity to your glory. Amen.
Carry On.
Have you read the generosity mailing yet? If you didn’t get one, let the church office know. You can also go to easter.org/annualappeal to hear about all we are doing – and hope to do – at Easter. Consider all this information, ask God for guidance, and consider what you will share through your Statement of Intent on Sunday.