Daily Devotional February 27, 2023

 Last Wednesday was Ash Wednesday.  Pastor Kit and our youth led the service.  They did a great job.

Because I wasn’t part of the worship service, I had the opportunity to sit with the congregation.  This was something I was really looking forward to.

I carefully chose my seat, and the service began.  That’s the moment I realized I had made a mistake.

I was sitting right behind Michael, who just happens to be one of the biggest guys in our church.

As I stared at the back of Michael’s head, I knew I would become a distraction if I got up and moved to a different pew, so I sat there, trying to look around Michael as much as possible.

About halfway through the service, Pastor Kit called the ushers to the front to collect the offering.  The offering wasn’t printed in the bulletin, and I could tell it caught Michael and Jodi off guard because he didn’t reach for his wallet.

This really surprised me because, after all these years, they should have known I will never miss an opportunity to take an offering.  And, if it was up to me, we’d even have offerings at funerals.

As the offering plates were making their way through the pews, I quickly pulled some money out of my wallet.  Then I leaned forward and reached over Michael’s shoulder to give him a dollar for the offering.  He said, “Thanks Dad.”  

I was so proud of me.  I had saved the day.

Just for the record, I truly believe the offering is one of the most important parts of any worship service.  It’s about more than funding the church budget.  It’s about offering ourselves to God in a real, tangible, concrete way.

By giving our money, time, talents, and everything we are back to the One who brought us into existence, we consciously allow God to guide every aspect of our lives.  It truly is the best way to live.

James said, “So give yourselves completely to God. Stand against the devil, and the devil will run from you.  Come near to God, and God will come near to you.”  (James 4:7-8a)

Today, offer everything you are to God.  He will take you up on your offer.  It will be the best decision you ever make.

Prayer:  Dear Gracious Heavenly God, I offer myself to you without reservation, hesitation, or procrastination.  Please use me for your purpose.  In Jesus’ name I pray.  Amen.

Living for self is an anemic, colorless existence.  Living for God is truly living.  Choose to live.

Also, just for the record, Michael and Jodi’s giving to our church is an automatic monthly draw.  So, if you don’t see them put anything other than my money into the offering plate, rest assured they are giving.  I love that.

I pray your day is filled with joy and laughter.

Tom Robbins