Dear Friends in Christ,
Dr. Davis Chappell
Several weeks ago a mother and daughter spoke to me after worship. The daughter seemed especially excited. The night before she had experienced her first babysitting job. And on this particular Sunday, she brought a tithe of her earnings to share with God. She was exuberant! God's grace was visible in her demeanor.
Her witness was a reminder to me that everyone has something to give. What matters to God is not the amount of the gift, but the sacrifice represented by the gift. A sacrifice is something we are willing to do without, so that something of greater significance can be realized. One day Jesus was in the temple treasury. He looked up and saw many people giving large gifts. Then he saw a poor widow put in two small copper coins. He was deeply touched. He called his disciples over and said, 'This widow has made a great sacrifice today. Many of the others have contributed out of their abundance, but she (out of her poverty) has given her all!" Jesus saw within her gift an example of what he was about to do on the cross. He would give his all! Its about sacrifice. Last Sunday, as we were singing the doxology I watched the liturgists lift our gifts in praise to God. I glanced over and saw the choir loft full of students. I realized I was watching stewardship in action. Our gifts in God's hands becomes ministry, praise and mission. Praise God from whom all blessing flow!
I invite you to join me this weekend in making a sacrifice. We will have opportunity in our worship to bring our commitment cards to the altar in joyful praise. Please prayerfully consider the sacrifice you will make of prayers, presence, gifts, service and witness and come prepared to honor God. Finally, it was good to welcome new members Tammy Lynn Hill, Amy Shaw and Sanford Kim with Andrew and Carter. Welcome to our church community. I am grateful for you. Davis Click here to view the Imagine - Week 3 Video If you were not in worship last weekend, here's the video that was shared.