September 11, 2010 – Nehemiah 10

I was thinking of all the people professing what they believe, out loud and as a community.  It reminds me of Sunday Mass when we say the Creed.  As a united group, we profess what we believe.  That isn’t usually said during daily masses unless it is a Feast Day.  The Creed is saved for when the entire community is together to profess it as one.  That is what this profession reminded me of. 

Also, giving your first fruits.  That is a big deal to God.  We often think of the 10% being the number that is important.  Give God 10% and you have met your obligations.  But that is not what God ask us to tithe.  The TOP 10%.  Our first fruits.  The best of our earnings goes to God in thanksgiving.  I am not sure exactly how that works with money.  My paycheck comes all at once and the government actually takes my first fruits before I ever get a chance.  I think it means that giving of our money should not be the last thing on our budget that we give when we might have some left over.  It needs to be at the top, right there in front of mortgage payments.  Some may say that “I need to pay the mortgage and other bills to live, no such need for tithing.”  If you find yourself feeling that way, maybe look at what you are spending your money on.  Granted water bills, electric bills, etc, need to be paid, but how are you living your life to create those bills.  Are your lights and TV always on creating hire than necessary electric bills.  Do you really need the internet access on your phone that creates your higher phone bill.  Why don’t you have the money to give.  Obviously, times are tough and some do not have the money to give because they have lost their jobs or something else.  That is not who I am talking to.  They are in need of assistance the Church can give because others give to the Church.  No, my refection is for those who have and think they need all the pleasures money can buy and then realize when they have paid their high bills to live that life, they have nothing for the Church.  Think about where your first fruits are going, not with only money, but time, effort, and your life in general.  God wants your first fruits because that is why He gave them to you and that is what He can do the most with.