We want to live wide open, embracing the possibilities, going for the gusto, seizing the day, and any other cliché that we can think of. Yet there is also a risk in living that way. We are vulnerable, might be taken advantage of, and liable to be hurt. It is not always easy to be a person of faith, but we come closer to Christ when we open our hearts.

Abbreviations:

TFWS: The Faith We Sing
UMH: United Methodist Hymnal
W&S: Worship and Song

Theme Hymns:

Lord of All Hopefulness TFWS 2197
Give Thanks TFWS 2036

Sixth Sunday of Pentecost, Year B

If last week was about the call to open our hearts, this week is about putting our money where our mouths are. Or more accurately, where our hearts are. And it’s not just about money. It’s about resources—our time, talents, gifts, and, yes, money. But, in typical Paul fashion, we can’t just give—our hearts need to be in the right place when we give. Giving is an expression of a heart open to grace and to loving God and neighbor.