The Power of a Mustard Seed
ax.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/Mustard-Seed-300×104.jpg” alt=”” width=”300″ height=”104″ /> This past Sunday we heard testimonials from two members about their experience of stewardship. Reflected in these testimonials I heard common themes that are often expressed in conversations about stewardship. Struggle, disappointment, encouragement, and blessings are just a few of the words that came to mind as I listened to the testimonials.
Another overwhelmingly common theme that I believe comes into play during our stewardship emphasis is a sense of inadequacy. This is both a corporate and individual feeling. We live in a culture which highlights the scarcity of resources. Day in and day out we are faced with the reality that our government, schools and personal financial situations never have enough. This is difficult for us to rectify with the fact that we live a faith that testifies to an abounding God. God is limitless. In contrast, we are limited and when we compare ourselves to the wonder and splendor of God, we find ourselves feeling short. We also tend to commit a sin of comparison with one another. Even in our faith, the struggle to keep up with the Jones’ is rampant.
Members are well aware of the financial challenges that often prevail in our lives. We are constantly forced to make choices as to where our perceived small resources should be used. I wonder what it would do for our faith if we turned from the worldly view of scarcity and embraced a world view of abounding and unbridled blessings.
This year’s theme verses express the very reality of our faith. When we look at our faith it looks like a tiny mustard seed. Upon first glance we see everything as small and seemingly insignificant. This is especially true when looking at our personal financial stewardship. Our pot of money is limited and the demands on it are great. We often look upon our giving to the church as so small that it won’t make an impact. Again, here is where God’s power and love comes into play. God takes even the smallest of gifts we have and uses them, and in fact increases them by the Spirit’s power. God takes our mustard seed life and faith, and grows them into trees of great stature.
This year as you consider your financial commitment to God through Christ Presbyterian Church, I would invite you to consider the follow questions:
- Where do you see the blessings of God in your life?
- How has Christ Presbyterian Church been a blessing in your life?
- How has Christ Presbyterian Church been a blessing to our community?
- Where have I seen mustard seeds being fostered into great trees?
