11 “I am honored all over the world. And there are people who know how to worship me all over the world, who honor me by bringing their best to me. They’re saying it everywhere: ‘God is greater, this God-of-the-Angel-Armies.’
This reminds me of going to Willow Creek over 20 years ago. Bill Hybels did a sermon maybe even out of this chapter where he was talking about honoring God with our gifts. He put some big challenges out, told the congregation let's raise a million dollars before Christmas. He was explicit this was above and beyond our tithes (which at the time I wasn't even giving anything). I believe it was all in the same service he talked about and maybe you'll go donate clothes to some local charity in need--he said here's an idea don't donate some used clothes even ones in perfect shape. He said go buy some new clothes and donate those. He was talking about giving our first and our best to Him. I don't have all the same eloquent words he used but reading the chapter today tells me he must have impacted me on that day with his words over 20 years ago because I realize I still think about it today. I'm not even sure how much I realized it was biblical when he was preaching it, but as I read today I see it sure is.
So today and everyday I will strive to give Him my best.
knut
The altar of God is not important anymore; worship of God is no longer a priority
ReplyDeleteAmen! Preach it brotha!
Isn't it funny how truth sticks for 20 years! Amazing. I have some sermons, or dramas that have had lasting impact like that.
This chapter is really timely. I'm not sure if I've talked about it on the blog, but we helped deliver Thanksgiving baskets a week ago, to families in need. One family in particular hit me like a TON of bricks. Single, windowed grandmother raising 5 kids.....all under the age of 7. Grandfather had just passed away. There was so much love there......it bowled me over. They didn't have much, but each other and some laughs. I've been talking to Max and Ben about trying to give them our best. What would that look like? I'm not sure, but I have a sense that I'm not supposed to deliver that basket of food, and just walk away.
I really liked this chapter and your input.
Thanks for the share.
tp
wow, people like that lady and family amaze me! i also want to do what you and your family do, give back to others and doing it together. Our kids don't have any sense of the needs that others have that we don't worry about on a daily basis and I'm concerned they lack compassion--especially Luke. i like the way you model things for your kids and for me.
ReplyDeleteknut