Dr. A. Lewis Williams, former editor of The Christian Recorder, once remarked that in the 1920’s “being poor became a sin in the AME Church.” He did not cite the depression or the upward mobility of the race. Rather, his context was the corruption brought on by money, and the necessity to give the appearance of financial success within the denomination.  We see it played out today.  No one wants to admit that they don’t have that $100 offering, or that they will forego some lunches next week because of it. Whether from the personal wallet or the church purse, it is important for us “to represent.”  This obsession has led us to devotion to the Opportunity of the Unlimited…no matter the ethics.

Pastors clinging to “Class Dues;” Presiding Elders defending Church School Conventions and District Conferences; and, bishops creating meetings where there will be OFFERINGS.  Who knows how God will bless…if only there is an Offering?!  It is like buying a lottery ticket (or playing a number).  Give God an opportunity to bless you.  We all know God needs assistance in blessing us. Right?

Forget about history.  Class Dues were to supply the pastor’s groceries.  Is that an issue today when most receive a salary?  Presiding Elders were poorly paid when I was a child.  The Church School Convention and District Conference may have accounted for a major portion of subsistence compensation.  Does it matter that the “salary” is already generous (maxed out for many places)? Ah, but don’t take away the opportunity of an Offering! 

Why does it take more than a day to plan? What is the purpose of the Midyear, Founder’s Day, Christian Ed meeting, Pastor’s Retreat, Christmas Party…well, you know. What if we limited the opportunity for the unlimited?

It is a sin to be poor, and it is a greater sin to take away the opportunity for generosity by denying the offering.  At least, that is what we are made to believe.  This is not a case against lovingkindness and generosity.  It is a lament over the mis-programing and extortion often connected to unreasonable offerings which are not properly reported, and where the beneficiary is obscured.

We need limits and a new paradigm.  Predatory corporate executives can dupe boards of directors into granting extravagant salaries and outlandish benefits.  At least the excess is known.  Is the offering to be like the wind: we don’t know from whence it came or where it is going?  Well, we may know “where,” just not “how much” and into “how many” different hands.

Has the privilege of receiving offerings become so abused that it should be denied?  Many truly love their leadership at all levels.  Many, also, have the means and desire to be generous.  As one of my bishops once said, if individuals want to show kindness “you know my address;” there is no need to organize or take up an offering.  It is past time that the opportunity for God’s blessing, and the graciousness of the folk, be motivated by love, not the ubiquitous cry, “it’s offering time!”