When we talk about giving to God and the work of God, we must remember that all we have is his. He doesn't need our gifts to do his work in the world - after all, he made all creation without us. On the other hand, we need to share the blessings he has entrusted to us because he commanded us to do so and because we are most like God when we give and forgive. What we 'have' isn't really ours; it's all his, entrusted to us to be put into useful service to others for God's work and God's glory, so others may see it and know: "Correct me, Lord, but only with justice - not in your anger, lest you reduce me to nothing."
My Prayer...
Almighty God and Creator of the universe, we praise your creative genius revealed through the incredible variety found in your creation. Please be with us, your human children and Jesus' disciples, as we seek to be faithful stewards of this beautiful gift and the many others you have lavished on us. We want to be the conduits of your blessing to those around us by being generous and reflecting your grace displayed in giving, forgiving, and creating. In Jesus' name, we pray to grow in the grace of giving as we recognize your glory in the creation you have shared with us. Amen.
"Then the Spirit of the Lord came on me [Ezekiel], and he told me to say: "This is what the Lord says: That is what you are saying, you leaders in Israel, but I...."
"This prayer begins where all true prayer must commence, with the spirit of adoption, "Our Father." There is no acceptable prayer until we can say, "I...."
"[Jesus continued his prayer:] "I have given [my disciples] your word. And the world hates them because they do not belong to the world, just as I do....."
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