When we moved to Portland in 1964 the local newspaper interviewed my parents, and one question asked was where would they send us 6 kids to school? Without knowing how, their answer was, “Holy Redeemer.” Sure, it was a sacrifice, but it taught me something about purpose and how to be grateful, content, and invested in others. I’m thankful for the example of selfless living shown by my parents.

In Matthew 6:19-20 Jesus said, “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and thieves break in and steal; but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal.” True, Jesus is talking about our money and possessions, but on a deeper level it is a matter of the heart. As Jesus concluded in verse 21, “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also,” we are reminded that who or whatever has our heart has our wallet.

And if Jesus has my heart, then my purpose for what I do changes. It becomes a natural response to my relationship with Him. Work has greater fulfillment, peace replaces anxiety over money, and returning tithe and offerings becomes a faith partnership with Jesus that I know will bless someone, somewhere for eternity. Why does Jesus have my heart? Because I know He supplies all my needs and I am grateful to know He loves me, forgives me, saves me, places me in right standing with God the Father, and I am a new creation, an overcomer, by the power of the Holy Spirit.

The result: I send what He asks me, ahead in ways that will bring further results for eternity. Money?… Why not? Possessions?...sure. Time?...of course. Talents?...naturally. I send whatever He asks on ahead so that the good news of Jesus’ love and salvation can be preached in word and action. Just like someone sent it on ahead for me…and you.

May God bless you as you send it on ahead for Him.

-Pastor Jim