" 'And whoever is left in any place where he dwells, let the men of his place help him with silver and gold, with goods and livestock, besides the freewill offerings for the house of God which is in Jerusalem.' "
Ezra 1:4
Some of the Jews returned to Jerusalem to build the House of God. Others stayed in Babylon. Those who stayed were involved in the project by supporting those who went. The same principle is in effect today. There are goers and there are senders. Some are called to build the Temple in other parts of the world. Others are involved by their support of giving financially. Paul understood this paradigm: In order to believe, the unsaved need to hear; to hear they need someone to tell them – like a preacher or missionary; "And how shall they preach unless they are sent?" (Romans 10:14-15) Foremost, they are sent by God, but they are also sent and supported by those who stay. An illustration of this format is found in Acts 13:1, and also the church at Philippi supporting Paul's ministry (Philippians 415-18). I have never been to Africa or Asia or South America, but I get to participate in building God's Temple around the world through my "freewill offerings."
Today's Thought: Some go and some stay, but all are involved.
Have an "involved" day. Love you.
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