We are in the middle of our fall stewardship emphasis. Our theme, “Grow as Stewards through Faith, Love and Hope” points us toward our commitments to Emmanuel Church in 2012.
While our financial concern for the good of our church in the coming year is obvious, it is also my hope that what we do here on Sunday morning will set the standard for how we live in the world from Monday – Saturday. Therefore, I remind you that three of the most important words that we can say to someone are “I love you.” They are words that come from the heart.
Likewise, Jesus tells us of three other words that are important in our lives as Christians. They are “Love our neighbors.” He teaches us that neighbors come in a variety forms: partners, parents, children, brothers and sisters, friends and those in our community (even though strangers to us) who are in need.
Each week, we show our love for the Lord by giving money in our worship service as the offering is received. Each week we give back a portion of the financial blessings that God has given to us so that God’s love for others can be expressed not only in our personal lives, but in the life and ministry of our church.
I encourage you to consider how your gift of financial support to Emmanuel makes a real difference in how we reach out in love to those among us who are young, sick and distressed, hungry for knowledge of God, anxious about life, and in need of God’s grace.
To be sure, your monetary gifts are crucial to the on-going life of our congregation. However, as we Grow as Stewards, we are also talking about how we show our love to others in ways that don’t involve money. So, as you fill out your pledge form, sign your weekly check, tell your bank to send a direct contribution to Emmanuel, or give money as the plates are passed in worship, don’t just think about dollars and cents, but ask yourself, “How can I show love to others?” Here are a few thoughts for starters:
Give affection (be generous with hugs, kisses, pats on the back) . Listen (no interrupting) giving of your time by showing that you care . Go out of your way to do some kindness for another
Peace in Christ!
Pastor Saling
