“Now as you excel in everything—in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in utmost eagerness, and in our love for you—so we want you to excel also in this generous undertaking.” 2 Corinthians 8:7
Don’t let it be said that the members of this church, when it comes to giving, stop at nothing.
Of course, we’ve got to keep an eye on things around here; you never know what might happen. I heard that Leadership Circle might also consider sending a letter to parishioners who didn’t watch our Consecration Sunday Online Gathering, or who haven’t filled out a 2021 pledge card yet—either a printed one or the new online version.
This is what it might say: “Dear Members and Friends: We missed you on Pledge Sunday. Since you were not present to fill out your pledge card, we’d like to make it easy for you. We’ve gone ahead and completed a pledge card in your name. Thank you for being so generous. Signed, Leadership Circle.”
Remember my friends that generosity is a mark of God’s people. Not everyone can give regularly, and that’s ok. But if you can, be sure to do it with joy and thanksgiving.
It is said that there are ten reasons for pledging. (Jorgen Lissner) Number 1, it’s an act of faith performed for the sake of personal integrity and an expression of a personal commitment to the more equitable distribution of God’s resources. Number 2, it’s an act of self-defense against the mind—and body—polluting effects of over-consumption and greed.
Number 3, it’s an act of independence from the achievement neurosis of our high-pressure, materialistic society. Number 4, it’s an act of solidarity with Christ’s people everywhere. Number 5, it’s an act of sharing with others what has been given to us.
Number 6, it’s an act of celebration of the riches found in creativity, spirituality, and community. Number 7, it’s an act of loyalty, given from a deeply held sense of love for our church and community. Number 8, it’s an act of anticipation of the many ways we can work together in ministry and mission when we pool our resources.
Number 9, it’s an act of advocacy to begin to change the economic fate of our brothers and sisters who are in such dire need. Number 10, it’s an exercise of following God’s vision, and to go where we should go as a community of Christ.
As one preacher so aptly described, “Every time I come to church,” she said, “I turn just a little. I turn toward who I was meant to be. Just a little more of who I really am and where I am supposed to be headed.”
You my friends are headed in the right direction, and I am so grateful. Thank you for your generosity! Praise God from whom all blessings flow.
Shalom,
Pastora Robin
