Keeping the Lights On

On more than one occasion I’ve heard believers say their church cancelled corporate worship because of COVID-19, but pastors are reminding members the church still needs money to keep the building functioning. One pastor emailed, “In the meantime we can always be in prayer, look for ways to serve, find ways to give…” Let me admit, I feel somewhat indignant that money is in the forefront of any pastor’s mind. Church membership, unlike private non-profits who twist arms for contributions, knows it takes tithes and offerings to keep the light on in a building. Jesus said, “Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him. “This, then, is how you should pray: “‘Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us today our daily bread. Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one’” (Matt 6:8-13 NIV).