Free of Charge

Dear Editor,

Many people believe that you can't go to church if you don't have any money to contribute. They delay and defer visiting a house of worship until they can get themselves into a better financial position. Then, they think, when they are standing more securely on their own two feet, they will be able to "pay their dues" and be a "member in good standing" in a religious institution.

Sadly, by this thinking, too many exclude themselves from hearing a word from God or receiving a gift of human connection when they need it most.

When the Reformer Martin Luther died in 1546 his last written words, found on a scrap of paper in his pocket, were "We are beggars. That is true." This was a succinct reminder to himself of what he had taught throughout his lifelong career of keeping the Good News good: that we bring nothing of our own to our relationship with God but receive everything by grace.

Were you to be our guest at Grace Lutheran, you would see how no offering plates are passed until all have heard a proclamation of God's love and favor in Jesus Christ "free of charge" (1 Cor. 9:18). You would hear the minister say that guests should feel no obligation to put money in the plate. And, should you come forward to the Lord's Table, you would see people presenting only open and empty hands, like beggars, to receive the bread and cup by which God forgives sins.

Yes, it is true that with repeat experience of God's generosity, many Christians form a habit of making an offering as a faith practice. They do this out of a spirit of gratitude and to declare their freedom from the idolatry of money.

It's not because there are any strings attached to God's gift. There aren't.

Have your doubts? Why not come and see?

Mark Williamson

Pastor, Grace Lutheran Church

Dodgeville, WI