This is the third post in a series of four that are linked to a Stewardship Series as part of our Annual Stewardship Campaign. On October 5th, 2008 we focused on Exodus 20:1-4, 7-9, 12-20.This very familiar reading contains the Ten Commandments that were received by Moses on Mount Sinai as an expression of God's care for the people. Within them a way of life is laid out for all of us. A way that is rooted in God and God's mission for the world first and then in our everyday interactions with one another. When it comes to our actions with one another, they are not passive but active. The voice used is one of command - you will not commit murder. One of the interesting observations of some scholars is that while Moses records begin giving a series of "don'ts" the implication of them is that as a community what we are to be about is just the opposite. If murder is taking life then the opposite is giving life. Here is a perfect example of what kind of community God is calling us to be: one that is life giving. As we look at the third facet of holistic stewardship we examine the calling of each of us to a commitment of active involvement in the ministry of our congregation. As the other commandments lay out, we are called to live actively in community. It is not enough to let life pass us bye as we exist on the side lines watching everyone else. Rather as Christians we are called to grab life by the horns and jump in. Ministry is not a spectator sport. Ministry is an active engagement with our faith as we seek to deepen our relationship with God through Jesus our Christ. You and I, each and everyone of us, are called to actively participate in the ministry of Christ United and in doing so actively engage in the ministry of Jesus our Christ. Are you ready to commit?
No comments:
Post a Comment