I guess after researching this passage, several points come to light. First, Paul was concerned that the fund-raising that was to occur was done properly and with God's intention and approval. Second, that there would be no mis-appropriations of funds - that the funds would suit God's rather than man's purposes. At times, they are diametrically opposed so TRUST is the key element.
This trust was extremely important especially if this was to be model for churches and especially this particular one. 1 Cor 16 ended with an appeal for fundraising. Let's face it, no one likes to fund raise. I know to me, it's the least appealing aspect of doing God's work. We all flip the channels or chuck the snail mail appeals no matter how creative it is - yet the "show must go on". It was imperative that Paul got this right so to this end, Titus and a "respected" colleague (or church member) would work towards this end. Titus was not sent by Paul but went under his own initiative - key point!!!! So the main point here is that integrity and initiative work hand-in-hand to achieve this goal. This adds to the integrity of the endeavor. I just pray that we as stewards of God's assets whether on a personal or on a corporate level treat our choices with the same tenor as did Paul with the Corinthians.
So far, we have had a good vacation. I love baseball and I love this weather even more. You can't shovel heat and trapising around in shorts and a t-shirt ain't all bad! Glad to see that GG is progressing well in his endeavors - got a chance to chat and pray with him late last night and looking forward to seeing him on Wed night. Still glad to see that he has the right attitude and perspective in this gig. Also happy to see that Dave's alma mater glided easily to take the A-Sun conference and will be better seeded in March Madness.
Another day of warmth, although it may rain later - going to see the NYY at Houston in Kissimmee later. Decent dinner at Olive Garden last night even though the wine wasn't worth it.
Prayers - that God will heal my peeps! And for rest and love for those that GG has to say goodbye to! Also for the presentation of the Cambodian STM at GFC today!
Praise for today: That He is my Savior and the blessed assurance that He is mine and that He is using this blog as a platform to reach others.
Just a tip, NEVER drink the "Olive Garden" brand wine. I used to work there, and almost everyone that bought it complained! ; ) Hope you continue to have amazing weather!
ReplyDeleteNow you tell me! actually it was another one that they were hawking - the first tasting was ok but it definitely wasn't worth the $7.50 per glass that they didn't tell me the price until the bill came.
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