I just read an article in the business section of a prominent national newspaper stating that many “experts” believe the current recession will end in September of this year. While some are optimistic about such a recovery, others are skeptical. Personally, I tend to think that the economy will stabilize and improve gradually, over a prolonged period of months, or perhaps years.
Challenging economic times can be extremely stressful for all ages. Some have been forced into a vocational transition. Several have seen their life savings or retirement diminish. Others are coping with increased tension in their home or workplace. Most are learning to live on less. However, during this season of economic uncertainty, God is teaching us to realign many of our values and priorities:
- To value relationships over stuff.
- To manage the resources we are given with greater care.
- To enjoy the simple things in life.
- To avoid excessive debt.
- To give the “firstfruits” of our labor to support the work of the church.
I am convicted and convinced that God is specifically teaching us the importance of bringing our tithes and offerings into the storehouse, giving in proportion to the ways that God has blessed us. Our church has a great history of generous and sacrificial giving. For us to build on that legacy to meet present and future needs, it requires each of us to bring our best gifts, without compromise or procrastination.
As we have proactively monitored our church budget during the recession, our staff has done an amazing job of making adjustments to get us through this tough year. At this crucial juncture, with the consistent giving of our entire congregation, we can support and energize our mission and ministry opportunities through the summer, and into the fall. But that task calls for our personal participation. Giving is our spiritual responsibility, a primary way we live out our commitment to Christ.
My dream is that we will rise to the challenge by empowering the ministries of our church with our spiritual gifts and our financial gifts.
I believe that God is calling us to….
- Live authentically.
- Give cheerfully.
- Serve passionately.
I look forward to seeing you this Sunday as we gather for worship and Bible study. And then back for the Chapel Choir Homecoming Concert at
