Two Twenty-Four

Christians often say that tithing extends beyond the realm of money. If everything we have belongs to God, then our time does as well. Traditionally, tithing refers to giving God your first ten percent. If you calculate ten percent of twenty-four hours, you come up with two hours and twenty-four minutes. I wonder what would happen if we devoted the first two hours and twenty-four minutes of every day to spend time with God? I want to find out.

I’m starting this blog because I’m tired of offering God my leftovers*. So what, you say? Just do it. Why start a blog? To be honest, I’m a pretty weak person. I make and break many commitments, and I don’t want this one to be another flop. I also know that I’m not alone in wanting more out of life. Community provides accountability and encouragement. Another reason I’m choosing to blog is because as we pray, we will see God working in our hearts and communities. By keeping a record of what God has done, we will build a pile of stones to remind us of who He is.

My greatest fear in starting this blog is that I will fail. Then, not only will people see how weak I am, but also they will think that my God is weak. I am willing to take this risk because I know that my God is strong. I may fail, but in the end, He will triumph. My second greatest fear was that two hours and twenty-four minutes early in the morning couldn’t plausibly fit into my schedule. Then, I realized that the problem isn’t the commitment; it’s my schedule. Instead of trying to squeeze God into my life, I should center my life around Christ.

With those excuses out of the way, I invite you to embark with me on this great adventure. With this invitation, however, comes a clarification. I do not think Christians have a moral obligation to devote the first ten percent of every day to spending time with God. In fact, I don’t think that Christians have moral obligation to devote ten percent of their income to the Church, but that’s another conversation. My point is, this commitment may not be right for everyone. If you’re going turn this into a religion, please stick to your regular quiet time. Likewise, if you find me acting as if my salvation is hinged upon this commitment, please tell me to read Galatians and do the same.

Free in Christ,

 Renee 

*Term stolen from Francis Chan, Crazy Love.