July 29, 2021

A Different Theology of Giving

July 29, 2021

DAILY READING

Psalm 17:1-7, 15

Philippians 4:10-15

FIELD NOTES

“Jesus offers a particular theology. He tells those who follow him that everything is God’s. God is the creator of all things, the maker of all things, and the one who oversees all things. Jesus offers a radical vision of people who are directly in relationship with God because of God’s love. He teaches that their care for one another and the community in which they live is essential to the health of their relationship with God. He tells those who will listen that they are to make use of the wealth they have, to multiply it, and to be generous and honest with it. Jesus teaches us that the stewardship question we are supposed to ask is not about what to do with all the stuff that God has given us. It isn’t my stuff. It isn’t your stuff. Instead, Jesus tells us to question ourselves about what we are going to do with all of God’s stuff, with God’s world, and with God’s resources.”

Excerpted from: Rt. Rev. C. Andrew Doyle, Church: A Generous Community Amplified for the Future (Virginia Theological Seminary Press, 2015). 185-186.

QUESTIONS FOR THE FIELD

  • How would our lives change if we started seeing ourselves as stewards, not owners, of our possessions?

FAMILY FIELD TALK

  • What are some ways your whole family can live more generous lives?

PRAYER GUIDE

Gracious God, you give all things. All of creation is yours; help us be grateful stewards of the blessings of this world. In Jesus name, Amen.