DISCIPLESHIP: REMUNERATION
The life and teachings of Jesus Christ provide a guiding light for how we, as Christians, approach the concept of remuneration within the Church.
Freely Given, Freely Received (Mt 10:8):
In the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus sends forth his apostles with the instruction, “Without cost you have received; without cost you are to give.” This sets the foundation for a ministry centered on service, not profit. Priestly duties and spiritual guidance should never be viewed as transactions or means for personal gain. Just as Jesus offered his teachings and miracles freely, so too should those who follow him extend God’s word generously.
A Time for Tithes and Offerings (Deut 18:1; 1 Tim 5:17-18):
As the Church grew, the need for financial support for its ministers became evident. The Old Testament established a system of tithes and offerings for the Levites who served in the Temple. Similarly, Saint Paul, in his letter to Timothy, acknowledges that “the laborer deserves his payment.” Priests who dedicate themselves to preaching, teaching, and administering the Sacraments deserve fair compensation to meet their basic needs. This ensures they can fully devote themselves to their work without financial burdens.
Striking the Balance: Service over Self-Interest (Acts 20:33-35):
Finding the right balance is crucial. While financial support is necessary, the spirit of service should always come first. Saint Paul, in his farewell address to the elders of Ephesus, emphasizes this point. He declares he never sought personal gain from his ministry, working with his own hands to provide for himself and his companions. He reminds them of the Lord’s own words, “It is more blessed to give than to receive” (Acts 20:35). This selfless spirit should be the driving force behind all Church ministry.
REFLECTION
As Christians, we are called to be both generous givers and responsible stewards. We support our Church and its ministers through our tithes and offerings, allowing them to fulfill their callings without financial worries. However, this support should never be seen as payment for spiritual favors. The true treasures of the Church – the sacraments, spiritual guidance, and God’s grace – are offered freely.
Let us remember the words of Jesus, “Freely you have received; without cost you are to give” (Mt 10:8). May we, in our own lives, embody this spirit of generosity, reflecting the love and grace of Christ in all that we do. By doing so, we become living witnesses of Christ’s message, fostering a Church community grounded in faith, hope, and charity.