Jim and Carol would come into my backyard to the picnic table. Our loving conversations led them to ask if I would open my Bible and teach them under the shade of the cypress. We began with Matthew 5:23-24 because giving is a loadbearing belief.
“How much should we give?” Jim and Carol ask. Speak with the Lord and He will direct you. For when you approach Him to give the donation you stand at His altar; the foot of the Cross. Your act of giving places you at His altar.
And Jesus says that while you are at His altar be mindful if someone has something against you. This is Jesus’ directive to be reconciling, alleviate alienation, and have no hostility.
“Leave your gift at the altar…,” Jesus says indicating reconciliation. Reconcile because Christian reconciliation is what we do first. Then give your gift with a pure heart.
Jesus rejoices when you give Worship offerings. Holy Spirit helps Church to use these offerings as Jesus directs. And as Jim and Carol nod their heads in understanding, the teaching of Jesus holds true.
23 So when you are offering your gift at the altar, if you remember that your brother or sister has something against you, 24 leave your gift there before the altar and go; first be reconciled to your brother or sister, and then come and offer your gift. Matthew 5:23-24
