I was inspired when I read John and Joanne’s story, “Modern day parable of the talents,” (NZ Baptist April Mission Matters). What holy and generous people. God bless them. But I was a bit offended to receive the same story later in the post, with the forms so we can do the same.

There’s one sentence in John and Joanne’s story that I disagree with. John and Joanne believed that the money, every cent of it, belonged to God.

If it comes into your account, it’s got your name on it. If you need to pay for orthodontal work or roof repairs, or an infant car seat, please use that money. It’s yours. Don’t feel condemned.

I hope the lower and fixed income earners don’t feel that keeping the money is tantamount to dipping a hand into the offering bag as it is passed along the pew. I thought it was Baptist practice to give as we feel God has directed us to give.

If we want a giving guilt trip there are other denominations we can choose to sign up to.

– Cheryl Wigmore
Hamilton