…financial priorities…
I just listened to Pat Robertson dole out some rather cold, apathetic advice to one of his listeners. The young wife and mother had written to ask Robertson for guidance with her family finances. She and her family had apparently tithed, but they were having trouble following through with their pledge to the church. She wrote that their tithe was preventing her from paying the family bills. (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IrfD4wLz3yo).
Robertson spoke with great compassion in his voice and concern on his face…but his advice was cold and severe. He explained that her family had obviously mismanaged their budget, and suggested that they move to a smaller house or buy a cheaper car. He went on to explain that her family could never expect to receive God’s blessings without first giving God10% of their income.
Although Robertson was quoting the biblical text correctly, I found his advice to be appalling! He was using the scripture to beat down a woman who was already struggling to make ends meet; and scripture should never be used as a weapon.
My reading of the Bible, finds Jesus breaking religious laws whenever they might have otherwise prevented him from providing aid and comfort to those who were suffering.
I find myself wondering…what if the young mother had approached Jesus, rather than the Rev. Robertson? I doubt that Jesus would have lectured her on the value of tithing.
HONEST TO GOD…I think Jesus would have helped the young family with their bills.







