What does it take to actually be truly cheerful about your giving in a “no good deed goes unpunished” world? Pastor Mara explores connections between Brene Brown’s work on boundaries and generosity and Paul’s instruction that we should avoid regret in our giving.
Some people interpret the Parable of the Talents as a warning against laziness. Pastor Mara wonders whether this is actually only the bare minimum of Jesus’ intention in the parable. Maybe faithfulness looks like taking some risks with what God has given us.
Two things happen at the same time when Jesus declares that salvation has come to Zacchaeus and his house: his relationship with money is transformed and he is restored to his place in the community. What does this mean for how we live with our money and our community?
