So easy a caveman can do it—sacrifice

I have always marveled at the primitive church as it, almost euphorically, sought to establish itself. There was such marvel, wonder, and trust among them that generosity and sacrifice was the rule of the day.

One of the places we read about this generosity and trust is Acts 4:32-37. There were many such acts, but one in particular was noted—Barnabas’. Barnabas, which means son of encouragement, sold a piece of property, and brought the money to the apostles. The humility and trust of his offering is given emphasis in the scriptures by noting that Barnabas laid [the money] at the apostles feet (vs. 37).

I remember the man in my congregation years ago who borrowed what then was a large sum of money and gave it to the church for a building program we were starting. While I would not encourage anyone to borrow money, it was an indication of the sacrifice he was willing to make. I remember the student at another congregation who gave a semester’s tuition to a building program.

Our trust is that God will use our sacrificial efforts to strengthen this community of faith. Barnabas went on to become the stalwart companion of the apostle Paul. The student went on to become an advisor to one of our Presidents. The man who borrowed the money retired and lived a simple but full life.

God is good and will honor whatever sacrifices we make.

Equal sacrifice—not equal gifts

C. Mac Hamon, Senior Pastor
Castleton United Methodist Church
05.25.10