SUBTHEME: EVIDENCE OF ADVANCEMENT AND ALL ROUND FRUITFULNESS
TOPIC: FAITHFULNESS IN TITHES AND OFFERINGS
TEXTS: LUKE 7:36-37
In the Gospel of Luke, we are presented with the story of a woman who, despite her past, approaches Jesus in humility and gratitude, bringing her most valuable offering, an alabaster jar of perfume. This narrative (Luke 7:36–37) is a profound example of sacrificial giving and reveals how steadfast faithfulness stems from a heart transformed by God’s love.
When we consider our tithes and offerings, this passage calls us to examine our motivations and reminds us that giving is not merely a duty but a response to worship. Our giving is not just a financial transaction but a spiritual act that deepens our relationship with God and contributes to our spiritual growth.
The woman in Luke 7, often called a "sinful woman," broke societal norms to express her gratitude to Jesus. She did not withhold her precious possession; instead, she poured it out as an act of reverence. The alabaster jar, filled with expensive perfume, represented a financial cost and her willingness to offer her best to Jesus.
In the same way, our tithes and offerings should be expressions of our devotion and reverence for God. They are not about the monetary amount but the spirit of giving, anchored in love, gratitude, and recognition of God’s blessings.
When we give faithfully, we affirm that God is our provider. Proverbs 3:9-10 emphasises this: "Honour the Lord with your wealth, with the first fruits of all your crops; then your barns will be filled to overflowing.” The essence of biblical faithfulness in giving lies in honouring God first with what He has given us. The concept of 'first fruits' refers to providing the best and the first portion of our income or harvest to God, not what is left. This principle is still relevant today, reminding us that our offerings should be a priority, reflecting the value we place on our relationship with God.
Jesus commended the widow who gave her last coins in Mark 12:41–44, underscoring that God values the sincerity of our hearts over the size of our gift.
Similarly, in Luke 7, the woman's action, though likely seen as extravagant, came from her gratitude and reverence for Jesus. Her faithfulness was rooted in a heart touched by grace, and we are called to mirror this devotion in our giving.
Our tithe, often representing a tenth of our income, is a tangible way to express that God is first in our lives. Yet our financial offerings or acts of service go beyond tithing, showing our dedication to God’s purposes.
Faithfulness in tithes and offerings is about partnering with God's kingdom work, influencing every aspect of our lives, including our resources, and empowering us as active participants.
The account of the woman with the alabaster jar emphasises the importance of spirituality in giving. It encourages reflection on our hearts, whether we are giving out of obligation or gratitude. Our faithfulness reflects our commitment to God and trust in Him, uplifting our spirits and strengthening our faith.
Prayer: O Lord, I receive grace to be faithful in my tithes and offerings, in Jesus' name. Amen.
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