The Stewardship Team at First Lutheran is planning a year-long series on Christian giving. Our hope is to help members grow in their understanding of Biblical Stewardship. Too many times we emphasize fund raising when our focus should be on "faith raising." Giving generously to the work of Christ is an adventure in faith that reaps amazing blessings.
Most of us are familiar with the verse from 2nd Corinthians where St. Paul writes, "God loves a cheerful giver." Joy is a byproduct of generous giving and generous living. Our gifts and offerings become an expression of gratitude for all that God has done for us. Christian stewardship is really our sincere expresson of love to the God who freely gives us all good things.
It also helps to know that God already owns everything, and the little we possess is simply on loan from God. When was the last time you saw a hearse pulling a U-Haul? I know, it's a joke, but it's a great remeinder that "you can't take it with you." You might as well have fun giving it away while you can. Someone else will be dividing it up after you leave this world.
Think of all the lives we can touch through wise and generous stewardship. It really is an adventure!
It really is a matter of the heart, an expression of joy!
Pastor Bob
