The Joy of Giving A Daily Devotional

October 7-November 8, 2013

Written by Disciples of Jesus at

St. John’s Lutheran Church

Springfield, Illinois

Monday, October 7

"Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver" (2

Corinthians 9:7). The directive seems simple - cheerfully give from your heart. Yet, in the realities of our daily lives where we are juggling family and work, is it really that simple? I fully admit to having moments where I want to be selfish and not selfless. I want to receive. I am tired of giving. I have given enough. I want to tell everyone relying on me, "I am done." I doubt I am alone in these feelings. Yet, if I gave into these feelings, my life would be empty. As challenging as it may be, a life full of giving is a life of joy and reward. For me, I find joy in taking care of my family, volunteering at my children's schools, and serving on various boards and committees. The blessings I receive in return are many. I am blessed with hugs and waves from my children's classmates. I am blessed with a few minutes to hold a precious newborn when delivering a meal to a family. I am rewarded for serving on the preschool board with the knowledge that we are helping our students develop a meaningful relationship with Jesus. My list could go on and on, but I will only share one more - the one that brings me the greatest joy. In striving to live a life of joyful giving, my husband and I have seen our children develop their own desires to give selflessly to others. They want to help others even when there is no obvious reward for them. They know that feeling of happiness that follows a selfless act. They just get it! That is not to say our children are these perfect, selfless, little creatures at all times - they are not. In fact, most days it feels like everything is a negotiation - what to eat, what to wear, whether their rooms are picked up, and whose turn it is to feed the cats. However, as long as our children know the true joy of giving from their hearts, the other less joyful realities of parenting just don't seem as important. It is the joy of giving that fills my life with deep love and contentment.

Jesus, help us to prioritize time in our daily lives to give joyfully from our hearts. Amen

Written by Aimee Johnson

Disciple of Jesus

Tuesday, October 8

“So we have known and believe the love that God has for us. God is love, and those who abide in love abide in God, and God abides in them” (1 John 4:16).

This may seem like an unusual Scripture reading to apply to “giving.” However, the side note in the NIV caught my attention. It reads as follows – “To live in God is to remain in God. We are to remain in a relationship with God, that is characterized by biblical love. Jesus was an example of a life that lived and breathed love. He gave himself and calls us to do the same. True love is more than a feeling; it is a consistent attitude of giving ourselves to God and to others.” Through our community of faith at St. John’s, we are provided many opportunities to give of our time, talent, treasure, and touch. A few examples are helping serve a meal at the Salvation Army, contributing to the Food Pantry at Grace Lutheran, helping to support the Stubbs family in their work in Tanzania, participating in small group fellowship, attending Bible study groups, being a prayer warrior, and so on. I am sure you are able to think of many more. My thought is that these are defined ways for us to give. What and/or how do we give on a daily basis, in our daily routines? As I reflect on the words above – “a consistent attitude of giving ourselves to God and to others” – I try to remember my actions from yesterday or last week and wonder if I truly was able to act in this manner. Was I courteous to others as I was driving or did I mutter words to myself about their driving skills? Di I compliment the server where I ate a meal? Did I use good manners when exchanging conversation with a clerk? Did I share a smile with a total stranger? Did I hold a door for someone who needed help? If I felt a nudge from God, did I follow through and call or send a card to show I care? Did I tell those around me that I love them? Did I visit with an elderly neighbor or share some goodies with them? Did I listen to a friend or acquaintance who just needed to talk? These are just very small ways that we are able to give of ourselves. They may seem insignificant to us, at least sometimes, but we never know how these acts of kindness may impact those who are receiving them. As children of God who gives us His unconditional love, we need to respond in a loving manner also.

Heavenly Father, with your help, guide and direct our words and actions so that others may see your love living and shining through us. Amen

Written by Marcia Burris

Disciple of Jesus

Wednesday, October 9

“I have seen something else under the sun: The race is not to the swift or the battle to the strong, nor does food come to the wise or wealth to the brilliant

or favor to the learned; but time and chance happen to them all” (Ecclesiastes 9:11).

This is one of my favorite Bible verses. It reminds me of my aunt who would say, “When God closes a door he opens a window.” Only God knows the path we will travel in life and how that path will have hills and valleys, pavement and mud. We all have had experience in not getting what we want or things not turning out as we had hoped. Little things like picking the wrong line at the grocery store or big ones, like not getting the promotion you thought you had earned. Or even worse, getting a disease or illness out of the blue that drastically changes your life forever. These “chances” we are dealt are sometimes hard to deal with and cause great frustration. But through it all, God has a plan; we just need to trust in Him. One of the ways we can honor God for taking care of us is to give back with our time and treasure. While things might not always turn out for us as we plan, it is a great comfort to know that God loves and cares for us, and that in the end, His plan controls all. Dear God, as we remind ourselves whenever we say your prayer, “Your will

be done,” please give us the strength to accept the path in life you have chosen for us. Help us to do our best with the abilities you have provided us in

this life to serve others and you. Give us the strength and courage to have faith in you and to give back, as you have first given to us. In Jesus’ name,

Amen

Written by Andy Roselle Disciple of Jesus

Thursday, October 10

“But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:19).

Sometimes during our daily life we become overwhelmed with the tasks put in front of us. It is then when we must trust in the Lord and realize that he is ultimately in control of our lives and he will not put more than we can handle in front of us. By believing in his Word, he will make sure that we will have what we need. Whether we get what we need from him or from others, we must trust that he will provide. He is the ultimate of all givers and for this we must all give thanks. I find much joy in giving. Sometimes it is the giving of time. Other times it's either monetary support or simply talking to someone. To me there is no better feeling than to help someone by giving. I try to display this in my daily life because I believe that this is what Jesus has called us all to do. His simple directions of helping your neighbor could make each person's life better and bring joy to many. Dear Lord, thank you for your gifts to us. Thank you for being in our lives and

inspiring us to give and help others just as you have taught us. Amen

Written by Brian Metz Disciple of Jesus

Friday, October 11

Read Jesus’ parable in Matthew 25:14-31. (See a similar parable in Luke 19:12-28.)

Each servant was given talents “in according to their ability.” None of the three were told how they were to use what was given to them. The expectation was only that they would be called upon to give an account of what they had done with what had been given them. The 3 servants were actually stewards. For many Christians being a steward is looked upon as a heavy and fearful responsibility. There is always a risk involved in using what has been entrusted to you. There is the unknown that has to be faced. There are those who try to influence you in the wrong way. There is the inner fear of failure. There are dozens of things that can cause us to fear being a faithful steward. All three servants in this text may have been fearful, wondering how to use their given talents. Consider not the fear, but the underlying joy that can be found in this parable. The master had joy in trusting his servants with his possessions. There may well have been some concern on the part of the servants concerning their use of what was given to them, but there was joy in that the master trusted them as he did. When the two faithful servants gave their account, what joy they had in reporting what they had done with their talents. What overwhelming joy there was when the master responded, “Well-done good and faithful servant; you have been faithful over a little, I will set you over much; enter into the joy of your master.” The only place where joy was not felt is where the unfaithful steward did not really know the heart of the master. Had he known the master and used his talents, his fear would have allowed him to also know joy. Lord, thank you for entrusting us with our individual talents. May we find joy and freedom in being faithful because we know you as one who desires only

our trust and faithfulness. Amen

Written by Pastor John Kelley Disciple of Jesus

Monday, October 14

“Each person should give as they have decided in their heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is

able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work” (2 Corinthians 9:7-8). I believe that everything I have is a gift from God. The best gift that God gave to all of us was sending his Son to die on the cross to take away our sins. God has forgiven all my sins. Trusting Jesus, with the help of the Holy Spirit, assures me I will spend eternity with God in heaven. In the Bible, God tells us we are to give to God. Are we to give everything we have to God? No, God tells us to decide in our heart what we will give and to give it willingly. God loves a cheerful giver. In Luke 6:38 we read how we are to give and it will be given to you. God will give us blessings in abundance but we must remember that we do not give so that God will give us more. We give because we are thankful for all God had given us. Giving is personal and private. Each one of us must pray and ask God to guide us in making a decision. I encourage you to give God your first fruits, not your leftovers. I know this is not always easy, but it can be done. Start out giving God a percentage of your earnings. You don't have to start at 10%, start at what you feel comfortable and increase your percentage every year. You can't out give God! Just as God cared for the widow in 1 Kings 17:8-16 and did not allow her to run out of oil or flour, God will care for you. God loves us and we love Him. Show that love by giving back to God and sharing with others our abundance that God has given us. God loves a cheerful giver. There is joy in giving and sharing. Try it, trust God.

Thank you, God, for the good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over you have given to me. Help me to remember all the people in the world who have so little. Help me always be a cheerful giver. Also help others

to find the joy in giving. In your name, Amen

Written by Carolyn Isham Disciple of Jesus

Tuesday, October 15

“God is able to make all grace abound toward you, that you may have an abundance for every good work” (2 Corinthians 9:8).

Every year when the hummingbird feeder is put outside, the busy tiny birds start battling for position. Even though there are four places at the “table,” the birds fight for whatever place one of their neighbors is using. The source of food at each place is the same syrup poured evenly at the bottom of the feeder. Knowing that all of the feeding stations are equal, I shake my head at their greediness. But then I wonder why it is so much easier to see the greed of birds than it is to see my own.

I often want the place at “God’s table” that someone else has, even though I know all good things come from the same service – God – and that His supply will never run out. Since God can prepare a table for us even in the presence of our enemies, why be concerned that someone else might have the station in life that we want.

The Lord is able to give us “all sufficiency in all things” so that we will have “an abundance for every good work” (2 Corinthians 9:8). When we recognize the importance of our work as ministers of the grace of God, we’ll stop fighting to take over someone else’s position and be grateful for the place God has given us to serve others on His behalf.

Lord, thank you for the privilege we have to serve you by serving others. Help us to be content to fill the place where you have put us, so that you might be

glorified through us. Amen

Written by Cathy Bringuet Disciple of Jesus

Wednesday, October 16

“By love, serve one another” (Galatians 5:13).

In reading a biography of Andrew Carnegie I discovered that the reason for his huge philanthropies around the world (over 1500 libraries, concert hall, Peace Palace, a university, an institute, etc.) was not inspired by the joy of giving back to God. He wanted the respect and admiration instead of the scorn for the way he had treated the workers in his steel mills and he thought his largess would turn people’s hearts. As Christians, we know that giving and serving others comes from a different place. And that place in our life is our thanksgiving for Jesus who redeemed us. Through baptism we are all members of the Body of Christ, the Communion of Saints. You and I have chosen to be members of one of God’s churches, St. John’s Lutheran in Springfield, Illinois. The membership in a church is a different kind of membership than we might have in the Boy or Girl Scouts, service clubs like Rotary, or a political organization, because we are not mere members who pay dues and attend a meeting. We are disciples! A disciple means being called and a response to our Savior who has said, “Follow me.” Paul writes about the fruits of the Spirit in Galatians 5 - love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control – and tells us that the Holy Spirit will equip us with these gifts as we follow Christ in reaching out to others. There are people who are hurting or mourning, who are sick or in need of a shoulder to cry on or a hand to hold or someone to rejoice with in glad and happy times. Well-respected Lutheran theologian Martin Marty writes “membership involves a calling, a response to a loving God by bringing gifts for the work of the church and donating hours and prayer time in advance of Christ’s cause.” As disciples we can be involved with the youth program, become a Stephen Minister, support each other in a Small Group, be a greeter, bake the communion bread, help with funeral lunches, teach Sunday School … and the list is endless. As disciples, we grow in our faith as we walk the path of greater service to others. Disciples don’t just sit in the pews … they stand up and we can hear them saying, “Lord, what would you have me do for you?” Lord, teach me anew what it means to be a disciple as I love and serve others.

Amen

Written by Elaine Birtch Disciple of Jesus

Thursday, October 17

“The precepts of the Lord are right, giving joy to the heart. The commands of the Lord are radiant, giving light to the eyes” (Psalm 19:8).

It was Grace Food Pantry Sunday. Time to bring our filled grocery bags to church to help fill the food pantry shelves as both colder weather and holidays approached. We had the bags, all right, except they were empty. In the busyness of the preceding week we had not been to the store. We came up with a quick plan. One of us would take one kid and one of us would take the other, split the list in half between us, then check out and fill the bags in time to make it to church. I went quickly. Two cans of soup? There’s oyster stew. Two cans in the cart. Check and on to the next item. At the checkout lane my wife could not believe the two cans of oyster stew being placed on the conveyer. She looked at me, amazed, and said, “Oyster stew? Really?” Then she asked the checker if she thought oyster stew was a good idea for a food pantry. The checker looked at the cans, looked at me, and then said, “Well, at least they won’t be alone.” It was a God moment for me. In my hurry I was completing the list at the store out of a sense of obligation and not at all in the correct perspective that giving to the food pantry should be. I was not giving, I was completing a task. The checker had a great line that held me to account then and frequently over the years as I have been reminded of my great oyster stew contribution. Spiritual giving is from heart, reflecting that what we have is not our own but is what we have first received from God. When we pause to remember that God has given us everything that we have freely, with the only string attached that we give back and share, we see that “the precepts of the Lord are right, giving joy to the heart.” It can be easy to lose focus on giving from time to time and see it as a rote activity that loses its depth and meaning. God gives us reminders about what giving is supposed to be. When done with the understanding that we are simply sharing what God has first given us, giving fills our hearts with joy, which is another gift from God. I get that reminder every time I see a can of oyster stew.

Dear Lord, thank you for your grace and the gifts of time, talent, treasure and touch that you have freely given us. Help us to share these gifts joyfully with you and with

others. Amen

Written by Dan Simmons Disciple of Jesus

Friday, October 18

“From everyone to whom much has been given, much will be required; and from the one to whom much has been entrusted, even more will be demanded” (Luke 12:48). While living in North Carolina we belonged to a very small new congregation. We were meeting in three small buildings and planned to build a permanent church building in the near future. During our yearly stewardship drive a special congregation meeting was called following Sunday morning worship. We were told pledges would not nearly cover our expenses. Could we please possibly increase them? My husband, Jim, tapped me on the shoulder and asked me to tell Bill, Stewardship Chairman, the amount we would increase our pledge. I looked at Jim and said what about the building fund? (We had previously discussed how much we would give to that when it came up.) Jim quietly said, "There won't be a building if we can't meet expenses in a temporary building!” Wow! How true! I immediately went to Bill with our new pledge (as did other members). What happened to our trust that God would provide?! And He did!! Later a beautiful Sanctuary and classrooms were built! A number of years later Jim was distressed because he hadn't had an increase in pay for three years. It's not that we needed the money but Jim couldn't understand, because his reviews were good but no pay increase. Well, I did something I had been taught to never do! I bargained with God! I prayed that if God would get Jim a raise, we would give half of it to the church! Imagine my feelings when Jim came home two weeks later and announced he had gotten a raise! I gulped and told Jim what I had done. He didn't say a word, got up from his chair, went to the computer, came back, handed me a piece of paper with an amount on it and said, "I rounded it off so it's a little more than half." I grew in my faith at these two times and then, as now, I do truly find Joy in Giving. Gracious, Loving, and Forgiving Father, thank you for loving me and forgiving me and forever teaching me. Life without you would definitely be joyless! Amen Written by Evelyn Lageman Disciple of Jesus

Monday, October 21

Read Acts 11:19-30.

The star-crazed, media-blitzed, politically-charged world we live in frequently points to those of stature, wealth, fame, and power as those who have the greatest effect upon society or change. We are bombarded with visions and stories of successful individuals guiding the less fortunate. Think of someone who had a strong, positive effect upon your day-to-day life. Was it a politician, a business person, a super-star? Perhaps, or was it a parent, grand-parent, teacher or close co-worker? How did they give you a different sense of belonging or believing? The Bible is filled with passages of minor characters who we don't hear much of on a daily basis but who played a huge roll in moving the faith and the believers. Today’s Scripture passage introduces Barnabas who is sometimes affectionately known as the “encourager.” Some of the first words written about him in verses 23-24 state "And they sent Barnabas off to Antioch. Then when he had come and witnessed the grace of God he rejoiced and began to encourage them all with resolute heart to remain true to the Lord; for he was a good man, and full of the Holy Spirit and of faith." The Scripture continues in later chapters to tell how Barnabas goes to find Saul (Paul) and he accompanies him, helps him, and encourages him on much of his early missionary travels to preach, support, and gather offerings for the struggling, early church. In my occupation, I have had the opportunity to make friends with a lady who is a teacher, counselor, and church worker. Even though she wields much knowledge and potential use of power, her greatest gift is in how she is constantly instructing, listening, and serving. She helps and counsels those who are grieving the loss of a loved one, consistently bakes for her students, serves meals to friends and the needy, gives of her time to teach and rejoice with students and parishioners when they struggle or succeed. In so many ways she gives to others with Christ's love and care despite her own limitations and physical constraints - all with a deep sense of satisfaction for the person she has touched. Wow, what an influence and message of Jesus. To be that type of person who loves and shares hope to family, neighborhood, and the world with such contentment is a real gift from God. Dear Lord, give us a heart of joy and contentment that we may please you and

truly give to others with the message of your Son, Jesus. Amen

Written by Jeff Koester Disciple of Jesus

Tuesday, October 22

Read 2 Corinthians 8:7-15 and 9:10-15. Giving can be great. Giving can be hard. I want to give my time, my resources, even my heart. But I don't have much time, much money, and sometimes I forget to look in to my heart to see what there is to give. But I know that because God freed me through Jesus that I'm free to give, free to serve, free to live. I want to give, but sometimes it's hard. I give thanks to God for all I have and want to share my gift and help others. It feels good to give to the church and I know that it's more than money to give - serving on church committees, bringing food to others, teaching and attending an occasional class. If it's enjoyable and something I want to do - why is it sometimes hard to do? I want to give, but sometimes it's hard. Have you noticed that some people don't put an offering envelope in the offering plate? A few years ago Andy and I set up automated contribution from our savings to the church. It's great - no checks, we give the same amount monthly, and there's no forgetting or getting behind. It feels great to see our contributions are on track when we get our statement. But sometimes we worry that people wonder why we don't put money in the plate. We're so glad the church can count on our consistency and fulfillment of our pledge but maybe I miss the "act" of giving during the service. I want to give, but sometimes it's hard. Here's what I need to remember, no matter what you give, how you give, or where you give the bottom line is that we give and that we remember that we give because we are loved. Loved by God. And, that because we are loved by God we are free to serve (and love). I'm happy to give, but it's not always easy. I pray that God finds a way to work through me to freely give and help others. Heavenly Father, thank you for your love and for all that you have given us.

Work through us and our gifts to help and give to others freely. Amen

Written by Jennifer Read Disciple of Jesus

Wednesday, October 23

“For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” (Matthew 6:21).

Our 4 year old granddaughter Scarlet, who lives in Yorktown, Virginia, was visiting with us this summer without her parents. While playing in our yard, she impulsively picked some flowers and ran over to me with a big smile on her face, and gave them to me saying, “These are for mommy.” It didn’t matter to her that mommy was a thousand miles away and wasn’t there to actually receive the flowers. Her “gift” was her expression of love and a sign of her relationship with her mom. I was just fortunate enough to be there to take the flowers on her behalf.

The idea of giving and receiving seems very straightforward. Someone has something, such as flowers, which they decide to “gift” to someone else, who then receives it. We come to church and give when we worship, teach, cook, serve, play, pray, donate money, sing, plant flowers, pull weeds, and all of the other things we do. In turn, we receive knowledge, the gospel, love, beauty, great food, forgiveness, compassion, and friendship.

For me, however, it is not just about the giving and the receiving. For me, the joy of giving is about relationship. Without a relationship, giving and receiving is without joy or meaning. God gave the most precious gift of all, his only Son Jesus Christ, to us because He created us and He loves us! And because we are in relationship with God, we have received the gift of forgiveness and everlasting life. Because we are in relationship with God, we joyfully believe that all we have and all that we are is part of that relationship and that it all belongs to God. By sharing our gifts, whether they are physical, emotional, or spiritual gifts, with our Church, families, friends, people we know, and especially those we don’t know, we share and proclaim our relationship with God. What a joy and treasure that is!

O God, our Creator and Redeemer, thank you for the gifts that you have given to us, especially your only son Jesus Christ. Let us joyfully, yet humbly,

celebrate and honor the relationship we share with you, by sharing the gifts that you have so graciously given to us with others, especially those who are

in need. Amen

Written by Jill Sproat Disciple of Jesus

Thursday, October 24

Each person has received certain gifts to be used to build up the body of Christ. The promise is there in the Bible: “We have gifts that differ according to the grace given to us” (Romans 12:6a). “To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good” (1 Corinthians 12:7). No one has received all of the spiritual gifts, but God has given at least one gift, and often several, to each individual. Christians are called to use their gifts in service to meet the needs of their congregations and communities. In this way they act as Jesus’ hands, feet, eyes, and ears in the world, serving others by following Christ’s example. 1 Peter 4:10 says it this way: “Like good stewards of the manifold grace of God, serve one another with whatever gift each of you has received.” Christian giving/service is selfless, sacrificial, loving, and done without regard for recognition or public affirmation. Their generosity comes out by sharing their time, money, abilities, and self, freely and willingly. They expect nothing in return, yet they receive the joy of love that increases as it is given away.

You may or may not be at the above stages in your Christian faith, but God’s Word will definitely guide you on your path of discovering where you’re giving and serving might be. As pilgrims finding our way in this life, remember to “Let Go and Let God” help you live your life to the fullest. Paul writes in 2 Corinthians 9:6-8: “Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.”

Over the past several years through the Home Repair small group, God has given me the opportunity to complete many projects for individuals and families within St. John’s Lutheran Church and throughout the community. I have personally felt a deep satisfaction after the completion of each project that a need had been met. I have not felt inconvenienced nor have I taken on these projects grudgingly. I have found that God has always given me the time, the ability, and the patience to complete each project and to work through every problem.

Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for giving me so much. Help me to realize that you will give me the time I need to use the gifts you have given me, to

serve others, and to take care of my own needs as well. In Jesus’ name, Amen

Written by Jim Sanders Disciple of Jesus

Friday, October 25

“Watch out for yourselves and for all the flock of which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to shepherd the church of God that he obtained with the

blood of his own Son” (Acts 20:28).

In the last 18 months, my family has gone through a lot of change, much of it by becoming disciples at St. John's. The joy this has brought us truly is immeasurable and the gifts that have been bestowed upon us through our renewed life and faith seem to never stop. During this time I have also been honored to be part of St. John's as we learn to focus on what we as disciples are truly called to do, to be and to make disciples. I feel that St. John's is in the midst of a rebirth, in a time when the many disciples we see all around us are learning to give of themselves to the greater calling. As disciples, my family and I have received so much joy in the gifts St. John's has given us, it is with joy that we now learn to give that joy through the gifts He has given us. Heavenly Father, we give you thanks for the many gifts you have given us, for the love you have shown us in the creation of your church, your disciples, and for the responsibility you have bestowed upon us to live our lives as you have called us to do. Help us learn to freely give of ourselves and help us see the

real joy you have planned for us as we do your calling. In your gracious name we pray. Amen

Written by Jim Storm Disciple of Jesus

Monday, October 28

“If anyone has material possessions and sees his brother in need but has no pity on him, how can the love of God be in him? Dear children, let us not love with words or

tongue but with actions and in truth” (1 John 3:17-18). It is going to be another very hot day. As I make my way to the office at 7:00 am, the temperature gauge in the vehicle already snarls 107 degrees. I only have one mile to go to the office, but it usually takes 20-30 minutes to cover that short distance. There are two security checkpoints to go through, and every vehicle must stop, open all doors and the passengers show proof of identity. Even at this early time, there are usually five or six vehicles ahead of me in line. The tools of my trade - body armor, weapons and ammo - add another 40 pounds to my frame and seem to tug me down while absorbing every ounce of bright sunlight even at this early time in the morning. It is a lousy way to start every day, but it is how we do business to protect ourselves and the people who work with us. Once I arrive, I make my way to the front of the building. Over the past several weeks in the building courtyard, I notice a small man in well-worn, dark green long sleeved shirt and dark pants with soiled white cloth head piece tending to a variety of concrete and wooden plant boxes spread about the grounds. He is here again this morning. Being he is an Iraqi citizen, I deeply appreciate the fact that his journey to get inside the Green Zone and this compound began several hours ago. With a small plastic bucket of water and his bare hands, he tends to a small number of pitiful looking plants which I also notice have been increasing in vigor and number recently. He does not look up or seem to care about what is going on around him, only the plants he is tending with his bare hands. At this moment, I am profoundly moved by his simple gift of grace and beauty to this small corner in a ravaged and war torn country. That morning, I go to the internet and find a website that sells gardening supplies. I order a set that includes a leather carrying pouch, a hand rake, a hand spade, pruning scissors, and gloves. Two weeks later, on another very hot morning in an endless parade of very hot mornings, I make my way to the front of the building. He is there. Quietly I walk up to him and hand him the gardening tools wrapped in a towel. A bit suspiciously he unwraps the towel and takes an audible deep breath as he looks at the tools of his trade. Two grown men, probably close in age with one roughened by years of sun and repression, exchange a penetrating glance. No words are spoken; a hand to the chest and slight head bow are exchanged between us, and we part. In less than a minute, a simple gift shared has created a profound joy that is only acquired through such giving, and an intense memory that will last forever.

Father, make giving a blessing and not a burden. As we reflect more and more on all you have given us, make us eager and willing givers of all the gifts you have poured

down on us. Teach us to serve you as you deserve; to give and not to count the cost; to fight and not to heed the wounds; to toil and not to seek for rest; to labor and not to

seek reward, save that of knowing that we do your will. Amen Written by John Moulton - Disciple of Jesus

Tuesday, October 29

“Give liberally and be ungrudging when you do so, for on this account the Lord your God will bless you in all your work and in all that you undertake”

(Deuteronomy 15:10).

My attitude about giving has certainly evolved over time. I clearly remember my mantra in graduate school in the early ‘80s, when I exercised to pop diva Janet Jackson singing all about CONTROL. Personal control. Control of my destiny. Control of my career path. Control of my pocketbook. Back then, as a young adult, it was all about me achieving and maintaining control, all according to my agenda. It took me another 20 years or so…and a few painful life lessons…to learn that real faithfulness is not about controlling but about letting go…and relinquishing control to God. Control of everything, including my finances.

Moses tells the Israelites to give generously to those in need and that, in doing so, they will be blessed. His words are as much about financial practice as they are about a state of mind concerning giving.

Janet Jackson notwithstanding, I’ve lived long enough to experience these verses firsthand. My life has been blessed beyond measure, but I don’t believe I perceived it that way until I became the steward instead of the master…and I learned to let go.

Heavenly Father, help me to let go of my earthly possessions and trust in your provision. Guide my perspective, so that I can clearly see where and how you want me to give. Thank you for all the ways you bless my life. Help me to be a

blessing to others. In Jesus’ name, Amen

Written by Lori Schlosser Disciple of Jesus

Wednesday, October 30

Jesus looked up and saw the rich putting their gifts into the offering box, and he saw a poor widow put in two small copper coins. And he said, “Truly, I tell you, this poor widow has put in more than all of them. For they all contributed out of their abundance, but she out of her poverty put in all she had to live on”

(Luke 21:1-4). What joy there must have been for the poor widow! To give all that you have to sustain your existence, and yet have the peace of heart and mind, the fortitude, and the faith to do so … and not fret feverishly where the next meal or stick of firewood might come from. The rich no doubt experienced a level of satisfaction in their giving, but could it have been as deep and intense as the fulfillment of the widow? Only Jesus can look into a person’s heart and know. Imagine giving all that we have to live on. What would we have left to support our families? Nothing … except faith. We have responsibilities to our families, yet there are so many levels of giving at our fingertips — time, talents, financial, and outreach to others. Let us find our path of giving so we might experience even a measure of the outpouring from the poor widow. Lord, shield us from poverty of heart as we consider the gifts we have to offer.

Let us be lifted up by the joy of giving, not pulled down by the weight of our pockets. Like Paul, grant that the scales fall from our eyes so we may see that the power of the purse is even stronger when emptied for others. And like the

bountiful table you have promised awaits us, may the ways each of us can give be as plentiful, beautiful, and welcomed. Amen

Written by Mark Butler Disciple of Jesus

Thursday, October 31

“We have gifts that differ according to the grace given to us: prophecy, in proportion to faith; ministry, in ministering; the teacher, in teaching; the exhorter, in exhortation; the giver, in generosity; the leader, in diligence; the compassionate, in cheerfulness”

(Romans 12:6-8).

Shel Silverstein’s children’s book The Giving Tree details the relationship between a boy and a tree. When the boy and the tree are both young, the boy simply wants branches to climb on and apples to eat. The tree is happy to give them to the boy. As the boy grows older and becomes a man, he needs the tree’s wood to build a house and later a boat to sail away in. The tree is happy to give all of his branches and later his trunk to the boy. Finally, the boy grows into an old man. By this time, the tree has been reduced to a stump. At first the tree is sad, thinking that he has nothing left to give to the boy. However, the old man simply wants a place to sit and rest--which the tree is still able to provide. And he is happy. When it comes to giving, are we like the tree, or are we more like the boy? The boy in the story comes across as greedy, always approaching the tree with a list of what he wants and expecting the tree to give it to him. And he is never happy. Even when he gets what he wants, he comes back a few years later wanting more. The tree, on the other hand, continues to give and give and give until he has almost nothing left. As he gives each of his parts away, he is happy to be of help to the boy. He never asks anything from the boy in return, and even when the boy grows up and stays away for years at a time, the tree is always happy to see the boy again. No matter how long it has been, or how big the request, the tree is happy to give something to the boy. If we are honest with ourselves, this story probably mirrors our own relationship with God. We ask and ask and ask, and God gives and gives and gives. It doesn’t matter if we last spoke with God yesterday or 10 years ago. God is happy to hear from us and happy to bless us. Now imagine what our lives would be like if we could become more like the tree. As today’s reading says, “God has given each of us different gifts to use” (vs. 6). Some can prophesy, some can teach, and some can be leaders. But everyone can give. Every single person has something to offer to God and to others. “If we can give, we should be generous” according to verse 8. We should be more like the tree. And we will be happy. Dear Lord, thank you for the many blessings you bestow upon us each day. Help us to look for opportunities to give, and to give generously. In the name of your Son Jesus,

who gave everything for us, Amen.

Written by Melissa Roselle Disciple of Jesus

Friday, November 1

[Jesus said,] “Sell your possessions, and give alms. Make purses for yourselves that do not wear out, an unfailing treasure in heaven, where no

thief comes near and no moth destroys. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” (Luke 12:33-34).

There’s a story about a guy who was determined to take it all with him. So as he was lying in his death bed, facing the end, he told his wife to gather up all his gold and valuables and put them in the attic so he could grab them on his way up to heaven. Well, she did as she was told but then, after the funeral, she went up to the attic and found everything exactly as she had left it. As she looked at all that stuff she shook her head and said. “I told him he should have put it in the basement.”

Jesus has a better idea.

Those Gucci purses are not going to stand the test of time. They will mold and deteriorate in your attic (or basement, as the case may be!). So fashion your purses out of something far more durable.

Make your purses out of the gifts you give away – the time spent serving at a homeless shelter, the gifts of personal care kits for Lutheran World Relief, the items purchased at the Fair Trade Fair, the stories read to children, the blankets knit for a new baby, the flowers brought to a homebound friend – the list is endless – and exciting – as we contemplate the many ways God has blessed us to be a blessing to others.

The fabric of our purses is stitched together with the joy of doing for others, the satisfaction of giving, the calling to live in fellowship with our congregation family. It’s in these purses that we find our treasure, for these are the purses that hold our hearts.

God of blessings, show me today how I can stitch together another piece to my purse. Let me be a blessing to someone who needs me today. Amen

Written by Pat Caley Disciple of Jesus

Monday, November 4

"Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver” (2 Corinthians 9:7).

I have had many blessings in my life, including two loving parents who raised me in an active and Christ-filled church. One of my many happy memories from youth is participating in children’s choir. Our choir director, Mrs. Mansheim, did a wonderful job selecting songs that were fun to sing and that had lyrics that still stick with me today. One of those song lyrics in particular went, according to my memory: “God loves a cheerful giver, give it all you got give it all you got give it all you got, I say now, God loves a cheerful giver give it all you got, Give it all you got today.” As I recall one of the highlights of that song was trying to “sing” each “give it all you got” a little louder than the last and a little louder than the kids standing next to me. (As my father used to say, “If you can’t sing good, sing loud.”) Ah, youth. The song was fun, but as a 10-year-old without money to my name, worries to my heart, or an understanding of time, the concept of what it meant to “give it all you got” was not that clear. As an adult, however, the thought of “giving all I got” is a little more difficult. Give it all? All my money? Um, I have a house to pay for and children to send to college. Give it all? All my time? My calendar is already pretty full with work, kids, activities, and Hawkeye football games to watch. Give it all? All my skill and talent? When is that supposed to happen? It seems it was easier to be a “cheerful” giver when I was younger. And yet, growing older doesn’t absolve me from the Apostle Paul’s encouragement to be a “cheerful” giver yet today. Certainly it would seem difficult to “give it all,” but I can give and as I do, I try to give it cheerfully and with an appreciation that my time, treasures, and effort are going to do the work of a loving God.

Dear God, help me to be a cheerful giver. Help me to not worry about the debit to my account, but to instead focus on the credit to Your work my gifts may allow. Also, help

me to remember that all I have is through your grace and love and that my contribution back to you is but a small proportion of all You have done for me. Amen

Written by Paul Wells – Disciple of Jesus

Tuesday, November 5

“Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver” (2

Corinthians 9:7).

I have often wondered what the “Joy of Giving” really means. Of course I know that God loves a cheerful giver, but am I really cheerful when I give? I do not mind giving, and I want to help, but how joyful can one be when writing out a check?

On the weekend of September 22, 2013, I saw firsthand cheerful, even joyful giving. Seven years ago, the Stubbs family, parents and three young children, left their home in Illinois, packed up their kids and moved far away to Tanzania to give of themselves by starting a music program at Tumeini University in Arusha, Tanzania. They were planning on giving their time, talents, and touch as volunteers for one year, but the need was great and they continue giving still today. During their recent home visit, the family taught with words and music during our children’s message, and kids and adults alike could clearly see their joy as they shared their God-given talents with our congregation. Everyone in that family has been blessed with wonderful musical gifts, but they are not using these talents to enrich themselves. They use them to teach others, especially those who would not have the opportunity to study music otherwise. I believe the family has also received much joy in return, joy that cannot be measured in dollars. Although I do not possess musical talents, I will try to follow their example and do my very best to joyfully share whatever gifts and resources I have received with those in need. I know that God loves a cheerful giver!

Dear Heavenly Father, I thank you for people like the Stubbs family who have shared so much with us here at St. John’s and with the people in Tanzania. I

also thank you for everything that you have given me; my faith, my church, my family, and my resources. Help me to be worthy of your gifts and to always

share them joyfully. I ask this in the name of you Son, Jesus. Amen

Written by Rose Moser

Disciple of Jesus

Wednesday, November 6

The King will then say to those on his right “Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat. I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in. I needed clothes and you clothed me. I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me … The King will say whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me (Matthew 25:34-36, 40). We at St John’s do all of these things. We do a lot of feeding the hungry and clothing those in need. But what stood out to me most in today’s verses were these thoughts - While I listen to the prisoners at Taylorville Correctional Center reading a storybook to their child (or children) I find myself wondering, why are they here, what did they do? They are so kind and loving to their children as they give them a message and read their book into the tape recorder. They say such sweet things about loving and missing them. I need to remember that God did not tell me to wonder or to judge, he only said I was in to visit. The stories of the incarcerated men will forever remain unknown to me, but I will always feel the gratefulness and appreciation they share with me when we are together for that short time. They may tell me a little about their children, or they might tell me how soon they are going to be going home. They always say how much they appreciate that we do Storybook and how wonderful it is for them and their children and how much the book and CD mean to their children. When I am finished I feel that I have been doing God’s work. It is a really good feeling that I take with me when I leave. God of Justice, help me to experience the Joy of Giving whenever I love and serve the “least of these.” In Jesus’ name, Amen Written by Suzie Weissberg Disciple of Jesus

Thursday, November 7

”Be generous: Invest in acts of charity. Charity yields high returns. Don’t hoard your goods; spread them around. Be a blessing to others. This could be

your last night” (Ecclesiastes 11:1).

With the start of the new millennium, I was offered the chance to be on the St. John’s Building Committee. I had never done anything like that before. How would I find the time for such a long term effort? I accepted and the committee continued for five years until the expansion project was complete. Financial contributions were also part of my participation.

As the Committee imagined, planned and coordinated with many others, the ideas evolved and blossomed. I struggled with understanding how the church members were going to pay for all of this. The first fundraising effort was only enough for a small portion of the cost.

Looking back now eight years later, it is hard to picture St. John’s without the new addition. It has been the location for so many gatherings. So many have given generously over the years for the addition. I received more than I gave.

After the Building Committee, I was on the Church Council for one year and became part of the Missions Committee. We began the annual Mission Trip in 2008 and I have participated each year. The memories of these trips gives so much back to me. My world has expanded.

As we move through our lives, there are times that we feel we should have more for ourselves. We are expecting others to give us things or to do things for us. However I have learned that when we think that we need something, we should go out and give of ourselves. It might be our time, our money, or our friendships with others. When we give, we receive.

Lord, when we feel that we are not receiving enough, teach us to go out and share what we have. Amen

Written by Ted LaBelle Disciple of Jesus

Friday, November 8

Read Isaiah 40.

I remember that day, February 14, 2004, like it was yesterday. All of Sara's family was gathered together in the funeral parlor before the funeral service for her Grandma Jean. It was the moment before they closed the casket, a moment that I believe is one of the hardest parts of burying a loved one. Sara's Papa Jim knelt before the casket with his hands stretched out holding onto the hands of the love of his life. Tears were running down his face all the while knowing that this would be the last time he would ever get to see her or hold her hand as long as he lived. It was at that moment I heard God speak in the depths of my heart, "Comfort, comfort my people" (Isaiah 40:1). I was not sure what I was to say, but I knew what I was supposed to do whether I liked it or not. I knew because I remembered when I was in his shoes when my brother died. I knew what it was like to look at your loved one or touch him (or her) for the last time here on this earth. So I went, nervous and afraid of him rejecting me. I was the new guy in the family and I was not sure what he or Sara would think of me trying to comfort him. All I remember was kneeling down beside him. I don't remember if I said anything or even put my hand on his back. But after some time of kneeling there with him he gently patted my hand and we stood up.

I believe it was from that day on that Sara's grandpa took to liking me. I doubt it was because of any words I spoke, but because of the courage God gave me to take that step of faith and live into the words He proclaimed centuries ago, "Comfort, comfort my people."

Lord, give me the eyes to see those in need of your comfort and give me your strength therefore to go and bring your comfort to them. Amen.

Written by Pastor Ladd Sonnenberg Disciple of Jesus

Commitment Weekend November 8-9, 2013

Share in the Joy of Giving as you bring your

completed 2014 Pledge Cards and Time and Talent Surveys with you to one of our four weekend

worship services.

Celebration Lunch 12:00 noon in the PLC

Homemade Ham and Beans Cornbread Desserts