Last Prayers for Peace Evensong Reflection

As this is my final Sunday here in Jerusalem, I offer my reflections being given at this evenings Evensong, Prayers for Peace.

2 Cor. 8:1-9

Motivating people twoard Christian stewardship is not an easy task. Not in this age of self-interest and economic crisis. Certainly not in a city that appears to be fraying at the edges and threatening to rip at the seams at any moment.

Paul spent much time promoting and seeking support for a collection to help believers facing unusally hard times due to famine. The need was genuine and the response charitable. His approach was subtle:
* He compares the chuch in Corinth to other great churches,
* He pushes them to excel in this area, engaging their competitive side,
* He appeals to their sense of international pride and desire to avoid embarrassment.

In other words, he speaks to the church's ego.

He is not necessarily seeking new givings, either. He is simply asking people to follow through on their original promises. And he compares attitudes, not dollar amounts. He speaks rather of the joyous, willing and earnest attitudes of the givers.

The stewardship compaign continues, but the appeal sounds slightly different. Although the people of Jerusalem, and those across Israel, the West Bank and Gaza, do no necessarily face "famine," their need is nontheless just as genuine and urgent.

Today at St. George's, pilgrims and visitors are asked to:
* Engage with the people, experience the living history and to learn about the conflict and oppression that prevents peace and reconciliation from lasting;
* Return home and share the experiences had with the same enthusiasm with which they moved between Biblical and historical sites; and
* Perhaps less subtly than Paul, to financially support the Christian ministry here in Jerusalem.

The same test is given to us today that Paul put before the Corinthians:
* To excel in faith, speech, knowledge, eagerness and love;
* To compel those responsible for leadership and authority to complete and follow through on their promises; and
*To be generous in giving more than you may think you have to offer.

As I think Paul hoped, I will feel my ego bruised and my international preputation further tarnished if after I leave Jerusalem, my eagerness does not match the love I proclaim to possess.