My Treasure Lies in Peru

1 Corinthians 16:2-3  On the first day of every week, each one of you should set aside a sum of money in keeping with his income, saving it up so that when I come no collections will have to be made.  Then, when I arrive, I will give letters of introduction to the men you approve and send them with your gift to Jerusalem. 

In his letter to the Corinthians, Paul discusses the collection of money for the poor.  He advises that money be set aside each week, based on what you make.  He does not say give sacrificially, nor does it the letter suggests to give lavishly.  He says to give within your means, according to your income. 

So, if Paul encourages this weekly giving, within our means to the poor, shouldn’t we do it?  Doesn’t he say to follow him, as he follows Christ?  This means that we should be giving to those who are in need. 

Since I have come back from Peru, it has weighed heavily on my heart to give.  More. Sacrificially.  I can think of no more worthy cause than to give to our Missionaries in Peru.  Jesus sent disciples in to the world with nothing, they were to be cared for by the brethren, so too, have our Missionaries gone in to the world to spread the love of Christ.  The title of Missionary comes with the anointing of God, but not with a salary. I was so struck by how humbly Jose and Kathryn live.  The majority of the funds they receive they pour out in ministry.  I was also struck with how so few people give, including myself.  There is no condemnation, but certainly a call to examine our hearts.  Where does our heart lie? It lies where our treasure is.  

It can be as simple as giving within your means, like purchasing something for them while you are doing your own shopping, for the next missionary trip.  It could also mean offering in to their ministry, which is blessing a whole city (please read my previous blog about my visit to Peru).  It could also mean giving sacrificially and going on a mission trip to Peru.  Any choice will change your life.  It will change your favor with God.  

Missionary Facebook page:  http://facebook.com/joseandkathryn

Missionary Blog:                    http://joseandkat.blogspot.com