Did you ever stop to think about how the ministry of Jesus and His disciples continued? How did it happen? How were they able financially to minister full time? We remember from the gospel that Judas was the treasurer, but where did the resources come from? Did they sell Jesus memorabilia? Hold bake sales? Sell BBQ?
They did a lot of traveling, teaching, miracles, and eating in 3 years of ministry. The resources did not just “appear” and Jesus didn’t turn water into wine every night. Luke gives us a glimpse of how the ministry of Jesus continued.
Soon afterward Jesus began a tour of the nearby towns and villages, preaching and announcing the Good News about the Kingdom of God. He took his twelve disciples with him, along with some women who had been cured of evil spirits and diseases. Among them were Mary Magdalene, from whom he had cast out seven demons; Joanna, the wife of Chuza, Herod’s business manager; Susanna; and many others who were contributing their own resources to support Jesus and his disciples. – Luke 8:1-3 (Message)
The ministry continued because of the support of those who had been blessed by the ministry. Not that these women and men were trying to pay back a debt, but instead they wanted to see this good thing continue. They wanted others to be reached with the same message that had changed them.
Today our giving carries on that act of thankfulness and gratitude. If your life has been changed by the message of Jesus, specifically at your church, and you want to see the message of Jesus continue, then give generously. Why not send them an end of the year gift to show your appreciation so they can continue reaching others?
When you do, know that you are continuing in a long tradition of generosity that wants people all around the world to have repeated opportunities to hear and see the message and love of Jesus.
