Psalm 116:27  

"What shall I return to the Lord for all God’s bounty to me?"   

Reflection by Martin B. Copenhaver

This time of year I have a recurring fantasy.  A member of my church calls me on the phone and invites me to lunch.  Over lunch he says, "You know, Martin, I am aware that the church is pressed for funds, particularly in this financial climate, and it takes a lot of energy to raise those funds.  Well, I came into some money this year, so I want to cover this yea'’s budget with my own gift." 

First I try to catch my breath. 

Then I offer to pay for lunch. 

But he goes on:  "I ask only one thing."

I say, "Sure.  Whatever.  Would you like some champagne?"

"No, thank you," he says.  "All I ask is that you not accept any other contributions or offerings for the rest of the year.  I want to do it all.  My gift to the congregation."

I take another deep breath.  Then I say, "I'm sorry, but I cannot accept your gift.  I can't do that to the people.  It's not just a matter of being able to pay the bills.  We need to be able to respond to all that God is doing in our midst and to share in that work.  We can't be deprived of the opportunity to give of ourselves.  To hear the promises of God and to receive the gifts of God, and to be unable to respond?  Why, that's a burden.  We just can't do that to the people."

Prayer

God, thank you for inviting us to share in your work through the gifts and offerings we bring.

About the Author Martin B. Copenhaver is Senior Pastor, Wellesley Congregational Church, United Church of Christ, Wellesley, Massachusetts. He is the author, with Lillian Daniel, of This Odd and Wondrous Calling: the Public and Private Lives of Two Ministers.