I Corinthians XIII
On the first day of every week, each of you is to put something aside… (I Corinthians 16:2 ESV)
A Good Start
I have given leftovers to my dog. I have given leftovers to a thrift store. I have given leftovers to friends in need.
The thing about leftovers, though, is that a leftover is left over. It is something I do not need. It is something that it is easy to give away. Whether it is a leftover piece of bread, a leftover pair of shoes, or a leftover microwave oven.
The lawn mower I use every week is not left over, so I do not give it away. The sweater that still fits me and is somewhat stylish remains in my drawer, I do not give it away. And I never give bacon away, because it is never left over.
Paul tells the Corinthian church to prepare for a worship offering by setting something aside at the beginning of the week. That is not a description of leftovers.
When we understand our relationship with God… His sacrificial love… His grace… His lovingkindness… we are not interested in giving Him leftovers.
Whether it is money in the offering… time studying Him… our attention… or our devotion.
He comes first. And that is not a grumpy command… it acknowledges how good He is to us.