18-Oct-26 (Matthew 22:15-22)

Giving can seem like an obligation, a duty, but it's much more a response. We respond to God's generosity with us by being generous ourselves, to share the love that we have received with others. Giving is a spiritual exercise, but it is also simply passing on what we have received.
In a world that seems focused on getting for oneself, giving is also a powerful demonstration of how the Realm of God is different and better.
As the deacons come forward to collect our offering for today, consider you part in giving of the resources and abilities you've been given.

Prayer:

Please join me in a spirit of prayer.
God who is the source of all good things, in gratitude, we return to you part of what we're grateful for receiving. Use these gifts for your purposes in our world.
Bless us as well, with kind and generous hearts, modeled after your own.
We pray in the way of your Son, Jesus the Christ. Amen.