Preacher gives sermon on generosity

The preacher of Whitestone Church clarified the difference between generosity and the teachings of money using three important factors on Sunday to an audience of 300.

Scott Sparks preached about living a generous life using 2nd Corinthians. This Book, written by Paul, discusses the generosity of the Macedonians and reminds the Corinthians about their pledges to help other countries.

"He's talking about a generous lifestyle that impacts everything about who you and I are," Sparks said.

Sparks showed what generosity looks like by contrasting eating at a restaurant with eating at an aunt's house. He said that when you eat at a restaurant, you get what you pay for which is often only enough to hold you over until the next meal. On the other hand, an aunt cooks a feast that no one has to pay for.

Sparks later compared eating with an aunt to the cross, saying that humans get more from it than what is given in return and that giving should be both sacrificial and from the heart.

Giving roses to a loved one was used to illustrate his point. If roses are given out of duty or because they were on sale instead of from the heart, the act means nothing.

"God doens't want our empty rituals," Sparks said. "He wants our heart."

Sparks said everyone does not give the same amount, but each person should give what he or she has decided in his heart to give. The willingness is what matters.

"Giving is about seeing people break free from everything that entangles them," Sparks said.

An insert was placed in each bulletin giving information on the generosity of the church's congregation. It gave the budget and listed the different areas of the church affected by giving.

Whitestone Church is held at Brickey Elementary School in Powell. The service begins at 10 A.M.