Giving God, we pause and wonder: What would happen if we tithed—
If we gave our gifts, Creator, hearts and hands all opened wide?
We might learn, by gladly sharing, Not to trust in things we own
But to risk—it's part of caring—And to trust in you alone.
We could do abundant mission, Sharing Christ who claims and frees.
We could reach out with new vision In creative ministries.
No more bound by limitations Of what churches can't afford,
We could learn with jubilation Whole new ways to serve you, Lord.
In each country that was struggling, We could build a thousand schools,
We could feed a million orphans And give countless farmers tools.
As we gladly shared your blessings, Then the world might want to know:
"See! How loving are those Christians! Who's the One who makes them so?"
God, we know we cannot pay you For your love in Christ your Son.
Gifts and tithes are just a "thank you"—Ways to pass your blessings on.
We have learned that, in our sharing, We receive more than we give.
By your Spirit, make us daring, In this joyful way to live.
Source: Songs of Grace: new hymns for God and neighbor #68
Carolyn Winfrey Gillette has been a pastor in rural, small town, suburban, and city churches; she has also served as a hospice chaplain, a hospital chaplain, and a school bus aide helping children with special needs. She and her husband Bruce are pastors of the First Presbyterian Union Church in Owego, NY.
Carolyn is a gifted hymn writer who has written over 400 hymns. These hymns have been sung by congregations throughout the United States and around the world — from the Washington National Cathedral to St. Giles' Cathedral in Edinburgh, Scotland to St. George's Cathedral in Cape Town, South Africa to small town churches and small household congregations; they have also been sung at national church and international ecumenical meetin… Go to person page >
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