Knowing My Place

Recently I came across a quote from Bill Gates that states:

“I believe that with great wealth comes great responsibility, a responsibility to give back to society and a responsibility to see that those resources are put to work in the best possible way to help those most in need.”

A great quote but I want to bend the interpretation a little bit. I figure that if the world can manipulate the Scriptures to suit their needs, Mr. Gates can grant me this indulgence.

The dictionary defines wealth as the abundance of valuable material possessions or resources but it also states that it is abundant supply. Now while it does not define what the supply is, let me suggest this and it will change the meaning of Mr. Gates’ quote. Allow me to quote from Paul’s letter to the Corinthians:

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. And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work. As it is written: “They have freely scattered their gifts to the poor; their righteousness endures forever.” 2 Cor. 9:7-9

This has very little to do with the wealth that is defined by mankind but rather of the gifts given to mankind by our Father in Heaven, gifts of love, compassion, forgiveness and peace. When I came into this position at this church, I had a very clear mandate as to what I needed to do. Jesus knelt down at the feet of the disciples and washed their feet. This was the foundation of the church. Jesus did not come to be served but to serve and He expected that of all those who follow Him, to give to others freely and abundantly. The church does not exist to provide a paycheque to the select but rather to provide comfort, care and compassion to those in need. This is the example given by the Master to the leadership and one the church needs to embrace. With the great abundance of love and compassion God has shown to all His children comes a great responsibility to share it forward, give it back to those who are most in need.

This Sunday, we will install our Board of Directors. This is a time of great joy as we accept the great responsibility placed upon us. Join us if you can at 10:30 MST on Sunday or you can watch us live online on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/MainAvenueFellowship/) or view it afterwards on our website (www.mainavefellowship.blogspot.ca).

Blessings
Pastor Todd