Habit of the heart

The texts for Sunday, November 11, 2012 (Lectionary 32): 1 Kings 17:8–16; Psalm 146; Hebrews 9:24–28; and Mark 12:38–44

Did you know that giving is a habit of the heart?
It is not something that best comes from hearing a sermon about how you should give
It is not something that best comes from guilt or obligation or shame
It is something that comes from love
Love and concern for the other—
the other person
the others in community
the others in other communities.
And that is what makes giving a matter of the heart—a matter of love.

I could talk to you today about that widow in the gospel text
about how she gave everything
but mostly I’d want to tell you not to do that
Don’t give all you have to support a temple
while you starve.
But here’s the thing: I’ve met that widow
more than once…

Published by jabbokdawn

I am, well ... me. I am probably most defined by my diversity of experiences: I have lived in three countries and visited (or lived on) six continents. I love to garden and take pictures and think about theology (and grace and justice and all that jazz) and I love Jazz (and a whole lot of other music too) ... and I do yoga and go hiking and enjoy meeting new people and talking international politics and working on justice issues and watching wildlife in my yard and wandering in NYC and kayaking. I especially love sitting in coffee shops and talking to friends. I hate sitting in my office. Oh, and they call me "Pastor," at least some of the time. View more posts