Lent // Almsgiving

This week we wrapped our Lent series as we explored the theme of Almsgiving. If you’ve been following along with us, you know that we’ve hit prayer and fasting. If you did catch either Pastor David or Pastor Brian’s messages, CATCH UP HERE! The insights David and Brian shared were both moving and challenging! This week we traveled into territory that’s less known than the other themes of Lent.

Almsgiving, not a word that makes its way into our every day conversations. As Christians, though, the sentiment behind almsgiving should always be evident. Almsgiving is deeply rooted in love, compassion, and the responsibility we have to one another. Its more than money and food, but its about recognizing our human connection and expressing the unconditional love of God to ALL PEOPLE!

In this series we’ve looked at the three people in scripture who fasted for 40 days and 40 nights. Moses, Elijah, and Jesus. When Jesus teaches us about giving, praying, and fasting, he tells us that our “… Father, who sees everything, will reward you.“ And through Moses, Elijah, and Jesus we see our reward is God’s glory, God’s voice, and God’s presence.

After Jesus tells The Parable of The Good Samaritan, he tells his listeners to “Go and do the same!” Reflect the love of Jesus to ALL PEOPLE! Jesus’ desire is for his disciples to love and live the way he did. Reaching out to the marginalized, the poor, the outcast, the hungry, and the sinner. Giving of our time, resources, and talents to those in need — whatever their need may be.