Sacred Threshold ::: Jim Wallis' Words

In my email inbox each morning, I received a post from the blog Inward/Outward. From time to time the post is so good that I re-post it here so I can collect the words and find them again. Here is today's inspiration I would like to remember.

Spirit-Activated Economy
Jim Wallis

"The early Christians did not share their resources out of obligation, guilt or in obedience to a new rule called "equality." They shared their goods out of a tremendous experience of joy and spontaneous offering. They had experienced the Holy Spirit in their midst, and their response was to share everything they had....

Behaving differently about money is a visible consequence of the Spirit's presence---a very hard word for people who would rather stay in the upper room with the Spirit and never come down in the street to live out the new economy that the Spirit has created."

Source: The Call to Conversion

I find Wallis' words important to me now as Abbey Way struggles to grow into a self sustainable community of faith. We have been around for almost three years. As with all church plants, the shortage of money can be a challenge to long term vitality. The good news is that as a church we are learning that our commitment to each other and the mission God has given us includes our financial resources.

I would agree wholeheartedly with Wallis in recognition that it is the Spirit's presence among God's people which changes our mind about our giving and sharing of resources. Where teaching about God's intention for money is good and important, the coming of the Spirit in power and truth IS essential. As we move towards the celebration of Pentecost, my prayer for Abbey Way in this season is: "Come Holy Spirit."

So come Holy Spirit, fill our hearts with joy overflowing. May your power and life radiate out from us for the glory of God. Amen.