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For many years, Irvin has...

Illustration
Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - C
Amos 8:1-12
For many years, Irvin has had a garden in his backyard. His wife will tell you that every year it magically seems to increase in size. Each spring Irvin begins working in the garden, tilling the soil, and later planting vegetables. He has shared his love of gardening with different groups in the community, including his church. Anyone who appears the least bit interested is invited to come and check out his garden. Throughout the summer, people will come to check out his garden and frequently see Irvin at his best. He certainly takes pride in his garden.

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Object: The object of the lesson is a gesture you will teach the children.

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Call to Worship:

Jesus warned against with those who store up treasures for themselves but are not rich towards God. Through our worship today let us pledge ourselves to seek our treasure only in God.

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Jesus, sometimes we envy others because of all they possess.
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Jesus, sometimes we desire all that money can buy.
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For he satisfies the thirsty, and the hungry he fills with good things.... Let those who are wise give heed to these things, and consider the steadfast love of the Lord.
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This story begins with gift -- with blessed gift -- with miraculous, blessed giftedness. And I will even tell you now the theme of the story: if you keep your eye on the giftedness of everything, then you yourself can be a gift, you can be a giver, rather than a hoarder.
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