Don't Be So Childish 1 Corinthians 11:17-26

My family is driving across the country moving from California to Wisconsin. Since we are moving with our four-year-old and dog, we planned some stops that both would enjoy. You know what they say about the best laid plans…

We approach the edge of the Grand Canyon, anticipating our son’s amazement and hear, “Can we go home now?” How frustrating! Evan, standing in front of one of God’s most amazing creations, did not appreciate the majesty before us.

Paul is confronted with a similar situation in today’s scripture. Informed that the Corinthian church does not appreciate the purpose of the Lord’s Supper, Paul is scolding them after, people come eating other food, getting drunk, and letting others go home hungry. Paul’s response is, “What! Do you not have houses to eat and drink in? Or do you despise the church of God and humiliate those who have nothing?”

When I look at the church today, I wonder if we ever mirror the Corinthians. Do we come to church with a purpose different than drinking from the cup of redemption that comes only through Jesus Christ? Do we add our own menu to the table of God? A menu that overshadows not only those who come to us in need, but God’s purpose of saving souls and changing lives.

As you go to your house of worship this Sunday, take time to ask yourself, “Why am I here?” If your
church is participating in Communion, clear your mind and give God every part of you. Let’s not act like a preschool child standing before the Grand Canyon wanting to go home, but let’s come as children of God who appreciate the miracle our salvation.

Read today's passage at Biblegateway 1 Corinthians 11:17-26

Have You Hugged Your Pastor Today? 1 Corinthians 9:1-7

Today’s scripture text is very timely for my family. Paul is talking to the church in Corinth about how pastor’s need to be taken care of for all the work they do. Weather it is through physical payment or by means of church members providing for them, it is the churches duty to make sure they’re able to survive.

Today as you read this, my family is on the road moving from California to Wisconsin where Steve will be ordained as an associate pastor in a church outside of Milwaukee. Being a pastor is going to be hard work, but we are excited about the life God has called us too. We venture to Wisconsin with a peaceful heart because we are going to be at a church that will take care of us.

Have you thought about your pastors and all that they do? Take some time today and thank God for providing people who teach you to follow God deeper, and who will celebrate your joy and cry with you in times of sorrow. Pray for your pastor today. They made have needs that require your intercession. Maybe even drop them a note, letting them know how much you appreciate them.

Ready today's scripture at Biblegateway 1 Corinthians 9:1-7

Thanks Through First Fruits Giving

I never connected thanksgiving with stewardship or tithing before now. Having spent a good portion of the last 6 weeks learning about giving with a good attitude and discovering why this is important has caused the light bulb to shine. How much richer is life when it is lived in gratefulness and not ingratitude. The world does not owe me, but I owe my creator everything!

A few years ago a man noticed my husband's license plate which touted the words "USMC Vietnam Vet". He approached my husband, stuck out his hand and said, "Thank you for your service." I was stunned, but my husband just grabbed the man’s hand and acknowledged the tribute.

Thanks are always appreciated and often deserved. Just think how much we owe to God. I can only imagine how many times he saved my life or the life of someone I love. How many times has God shown me only love, when I deserved His wrath.

When I acknowledge God's generosity to me by giving Him the 'first fruits' from the harvest, I am paying tribute to Him for his loving service to me.

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