Eric Hulstrand writes in Leadership magazine:  While I was preaching one Sunday, an elderly woman, Mary, fainted and struck her head on the end of the pew.  Immediately, an EMT in the congregation called an ambulance.  As they strapped her to a stretcher and got ready to head out the door, Mary regained consciousness.  She motioned for her daughter to come near.  Everyone thought she was summoning her strength to convey what could be her final words.  The daughter leaned over until her ear was at her mother’s mouth.  "’My offering is in my purse,’ she whispered."  That elderly woman was a remarkable person.  Her last words showed what was of highest importance to her - to be a steward of gifts God had given her.

Jesus said, " For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also."  While some Christians debate the issue of tithing... the checkbook is a good way to find where one's treasure is located.  Really, tithing could be viewed as the minimum requirements for giving.