Money, manna and ministry

Remember the story of God’s people wandering in the desert? They grumble about the food, and long to return to Egypt. Why? They had been slaves! Yet they remember the meat and the bread. They yearn to return to what’s familiar.

I heard someone say—and sadly, I can’t remember the source—that if put to a vote, a congregation will always vote to return to Egypt. I’ve written about the force of nostalgia before, it’s a powerful temptation.

Can God be trusted? Yes! Can God be trusted, even in the wilderness? Yes!

Manna

God hears the people’s grumbling and responds with compassion. God sends quails at twilight and manna in the morning. Some people gathered only a little manna and some gathered a lot. But when they measured it out, everyone had enough.

Money

The Apostle Paul uses the story of manna in 2 Corinthians 8 to remind the believers that generosity results in everyone having enough. Paul is collecting funds to help believers in Jerusalem. He not asking people to give beyond their means (although the Macedonians did so). He assures them that their gifts will be acceptable according to what they have. What they have to give is enough.

Ministry

Do you feel like you are wandering in the wilderness? Take a minute and remember how God has helped your congregation in the past. Recall the generous saints who have come before. Pray. Ask for the gift of gratitude.

Generosity comes from a thankful heart. I know that “generosity comes from a thankful heart” sounds like something cross-stitched on a cushion! However, leaning on fear and guilt to motivate financial giving makes people want to run back to Egypt.

Can God be trusted? Yes! Can God be trusted, even in the wilderness? Yes!

When we share what God has given us: manna, money, time and other resources, there will be enough. Thanks be to God.