StoneBridge Community Church

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Friday, April 3
A Reflection on Charity from Steve Tapp

Steve is a longtime member at StoneBridge. He most recently served on the Nominating Committee of StoneBridge. He is married to Lori.

1 John 3:17-18 ESV But if anyone has the world's goods and sees his brother in need, yet closes his heart against him, how does God's love abide in him? Little children, let us not love in word or talk but in action and in truth.

In 1958, driving an old car with many miles in it, headed north on a desolate stretch of highway on a blazingly hot day near Red Bluff California, my family’s summer trip suddenly stopped. The engine just quit. My brother was 5 years old and I was 3. My folks had little cash for the trip, no phones nearby, no credit cards, no city or homes in sight. A truck stopped and two Mexican-American men gestured with my dad, since a common language wasn’t spoken. Before long, my brother and I were playing in a stranger’s home with several kids who shared their toys with us. My mom sat with gracious ladies, without speaking more than a few words. Hours later, my dad drove up with the car repaired. And after heartfelt “thank you's” were said, off we went. My mother’s eyes welled with tears every time she told this story. Compounded by ever-present money worries, she had been so scared of being stranded on that desolate highway. But the main point of her recollection was their kindness, generosity, and how that entire family dropped everything for an afternoon to help us. We drove north on that highway every summer for over a decade. And every time, mom quietly teared up along that lonesome stretch of highway. Putting 1 John 3:17-18 into practice can have a lifelong effect.

As we reflect on our call for charity, let’s not only open our hearts to opportunities to extend God’s love and take action to do so, let’s also spend a few moments remembering those who have shown charity to us - whether that be something tangible like a meal, clothing, money, a place to rest, or perhaps something intangible like words of encouragement, or a hug when it was needed most.

Prayer: Lord, fill me with strength to focus and take actions beyond my own needs and to hear your voice when called to do so. I pray for courage to put my faith into action that will result in spreading comfort and love to others, whoever they are, and whatever the need. I pray you’ll bless my efforts as I walk with you, my loving Father. Amen.

Wednesday, April 1
A Reflection on Charity from Michael Purvis

Michael is a longtime member of StoneBridge. He currently serves as an elder on Session, chairing the Health and Safety Team. He is married to Kristen. They have two children.

In the past, I’ve found myself in situations when keeping up with the Joneses made it seem impossible to give to charity. From the flashy sound system to always having the newest smartphone, I let my money get away from me. What has consistently focused my heart and eased my worries about money is the spiritual discipline of charity. Scripture reminds us that "… where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." (Mt 6:21) Intentionally setting aside resources to give to God has helped shape the way I view stewardship. Concentrating on charity helps me remain mindful of how I use the blessings entrusted to me, reinforcing the truth that “… every good and perfect gift is from above, …" (James 1:17). Giving keeps my focus centered on God throughout each day, reminding me that true security never comes from wealth. As Proverbs teaches, “Honor the Lord with your wealth and with the first fruits of all your produce…” (Proverbs 3:9). In practicing charity, I’m reminded that everything I have is ultimately God’s, and that trusting in God’s provision brings far greater peace than anything money could offer. Cultivating that spirit of charity has helped anchor my heart more firmly in God.