When I think of tithing I think of the–was it a sheep herder–in the Bible, who had 10 sheep, who in some way benefited from JC’s council that he “paid” JC in the form of one sheep. One-tenth. A tithe.
Some time ago I learned of this concept of “unexpected income” from Dr. Roger at Mile Hi Church. The idea is draw my attention to the givingness of God. Because otherwise it is easy to only note the obvious ways one receives like from a paycheck.
I find this practice fascinating, riveting and compelling. For whether it be someone buying me lunch, repaying a debt or a refund check in the mail, I am amazed to note that receiving is an ongoing happening in life.
Well, to helps us cozy up to the spiritual practice of tithing, Dr. Roger proposes one tithe only on unexpected income. I have felt especially blessed in recent months, despite the “dreaded move” that I am actively looking out for sources of unexpected income and then tithing on them.
Further, what I find interesting about tithing is that, according to Roger, the idea is not simply to give but to give to that which nourishes one spiritually. Besides my church, I feel my niece and nephews often act as my spiritual guides.
To be true to the practice, the giving is to be at least one-tenth of what is received. I remember a minister getting absolutely jazzed about tithing on unexpected income as he spoke about seeing it everywhere in a myriad of forms. His infectious enthusiasm vividly paints this memory in my mind.
In my heart though, I wonder if the gift of tithing for me is in drawing my attention to Source’s generosity reminding me that though I grow tired and weary and feel lost at times, the Every Where Present is every on it.
Bright Moments.
EveryWherePresent 