A Letter from the Pastor
by Russell Kampfer
After Jesus and his disciples arrived in Capernaum, the collectors of the temple tax came to Peter and asked, “Doesn’t your teacher pay the temple tax?” “Yes, he does,” he replied. When Peter came into the house, Jesus was the first to speak. “What do you think, Simon?” he asked. “From whom do the kings of the earth collect duty and taxes—from their own children or from others?” “From others,” Peter answered. “Then the children are exempt,” Jesus said to him. Jesus went on to say, “But so that we may not cause offense, go to the lake and throw out your line. Take the first fish you catch; open its mouth and you will find a four-drachma coin. Take it and give it to them for my tax and yours.” (Matthew 17)
I just got back from a Canadian Christian Men's Retreat and found this odd saying from Jesus. This certainly is among those of the strangest. Shall we pay taxes to the temple? Jesus says, “No, the children pay no taxes.” Then he goes on to say that he doesn’t want to cause an offense, so pay the tax with money you get from a fish’s mouth.
Money from the mouth of a fish is strange. What could this all be about? There is a certain freedom we as Christians possess because we belong to our Lord and Savior, Jesus. We no longer pay a tax to the church, but rather give freely from a heart blessed by our gracious God. God put the coins in the mouth of the fish. We are free to take them and be thankful, making them our gift to the ministry in service of God.
Have you caught any fish chewing on coins lately? I have. But this one didn’t come with scales or fins. This one came as a gift horse (so to speak). God opened up His hand and there it was. It’s the opportunity to care for others (and in this case the elderly and imprisoned). And you know how the old saying goes, “Don’t look that gift horse (fish) in the mouth.”
We have been given so much that our thankfulness and gratefulness ought to be overflowing. I hope that is the case with you. In my life I see my opportunities to serve as a “real keeper”. They come not of this world, but however God sends me to find them. In this case, now, through GWCS,
I pray and hope you do well fishing. Never forget to check your fish for the treasures they hold. My prayers are for God’s servants to practice hospitality, kindness, patience, faithfulness and love with a joyful heart. Most of all, see your God as good and gracious. Take every opportunity to reflect on His love for you. I promise that love will pay dividends as it returns to Him as His love spreads! AMEN
Kids Kount Update
by GWCS Team
Now in it’s 25th year, our toy drive “Kids Kount” will begin soon.
Gifts are donated to children who have a parent in the Marathon County Jail over the Christmas season. These gifts are purchased through the generosity of many people.
Present Drop off will begin this fall again and will be hosted by 89Q.
Location:
3500 Stewart Avenue
Wausau, WI 54401
715-355-5151
We will need volunteers to help with toy distribution, wrapping presents and more. If interested, please call our office. (715) 842-5635
Comments