Looking with Gratitude – November 22, 2020

Scripture: Acts 4: 32-35

The community of believers was one in heart and mind. None of them would say, “This is mine!” about any of their possessions, but held everything in common. The apostles continued to bear powerful witness to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and an abundance of grace was at work among them all. There were no needy persons among them. Those who owned properties or houses would sell them, bring the proceeds from the sales, and place them in the care and under the authority of the apostles. Then it was distributed to anyone who was in need. (Acts 4:32-35)

The end of the movie It’s a Wonderful Life is a joyful celebration of community and generosity and George Bailey’s thankfulness is infectious. At the heart of our relationship to money is living and giving with gratitude–whether the assets we have to give are monetary, or our own capital of time and energy for the sake of the human family. As a result of aligning our money practices with the courageous vision we see for ourselves and our impact on the world, we end our series by looking for the hope that has been cultivated and the possibility that we will transform fear to gratitude in the act of sharing.