Brother, Can You Spare a Dime?

Therefore render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things which are God's. [Matthew 22:21]

Today was the start of our annual stewardship campaign at church. Pastor D kicked it off right away during the children's sermon.

Each child was given a Ziploc bag containing one dollar in dimes. They were then told that since everything comes from God (as represented by the dimes), we can show our gratitude by giving back ten percent - or one dime. We would still be left with nine dimes apiece while the church would receive many dimes which would help in doing God's work.

In a previous post I mentioned that technically there is no mention of tithing in the New Testament. However, we are still obligated to give back to God - with our time, our money, and our hearts - as a response to the wonderful Grace that has been given us (even though we don't deserve it).

I know it's not easy for some to come up with ten percent to give back. Many of us are slaves to consumer debt. I speak from personal experience on that point. Fortunately, I have been working to free us from that yoke, and we have been able to give almost a dime's worth back to the Lord. That in itself is liberating, as well as a blessing.

I implore you to give what you know in your heart you can give. I know you'll be blessed just as much as those are being blessed by your offerings. Brother (and sister), can you spare a dime?