Dear Trinity Family & Friends,

This week, we continue our Stewardship series with a message entitled “Hearts That Give Back.”

In Luke 7, we encounter an unnamed, uninvited, and unexpected woman who becomes the truest worshipper in the room. She kneels at Jesus’ feet, weeping and pouring out costly perfume, not to impress but to express a heart overwhelmed by grace. She says nothing, asks nothing, yet gives everything in a vulnerable act of love. Jesus sees not just her actions but her heart, and declares, “She has shown great love because she has been forgiven much.” Her story stands in stark contrast to the hollow hospitality of her host, reminding us that true worship flows not from duty but from deep gratitude of the heart.

In Matthew 6, Jesus warns us not to practice righteousness for show, not to give, pray, or fast for the sake of applause. Instead, he invites us to store up treasure in heaven, where hearts align with what we truly value. “Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”

So we ask: What does a heart that gives back look like? It’s not just a generous heart, it’s a grateful one. It’s a heart that remembers what God has done and can’t help but respond with love. This is the kind of stewardship God desires. Not a reluctant donation, but a joyful offering. Not a public performance, but a humble surrender. Not because we have to, but because we want to.

Whether we’re offering a check, a prayer, a listening ear, or a humble act of service, the question isn’t “how much?” but “from what place?” Jesus sees what others miss. He always starts with the heart.

Small Group Discussion Questions:

1. What do you notice about the woman’s posture and actions in Luke 7? How does her story challenge or inspire you?
2. In what ways can giving (of time, love, finances, or attention) become more about performance than genuine response?
3. Jesus says, “Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” What does your current treasure trail say about your priorities?
4. When have you experienced a moment of deep gratitude that led to a generous response—financial or otherwise?

This week’s message reminds us that God doesn’t just want our stuff, God wants our hearts. Not the part we’ve filtered or polished up for others to see, but the part that weeps in private and knows what grace really means.

You don’t have to have it all together to give something back. Just come with your heart open, and let love lead the way.

Blessings,

Pastor Carrie

Want to explore more about “What Can I Give Back?” Visit our 2025 Stewardship page for resources, stories, and ways to participate: trinityhsv.org/stewardship