ENRICHED IN EVERY WAY

I have been doing stewardship work in the church for thirty-seven years. That seems like a lifetime. It has been rewarding as congregations came together to fund mission, build buildings, and grow spiritually as they tended gifts of generosity. It has also been a challenge because we live in an age in which coming together and growing in generosity are far from people’s minds and hearts.

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​I can testify that the Apostle Paul was right when he called the people of Corinth to come together and to grow in generosity. The act of giving enriches the giver more than those who receive the gifts. As he bid the Corinthians to give an offering to aid those suffering in Jerusalem he assured them, “You will be enriched in every way for your great generosity, which will produce thanksgiving to God through us; for the rendering of this ministry not only supplies the needs of the saints but also overflows with many thanksgivings to God.” (2 Corinthians 9:11-12)
 
The church is not a charity we give to. Nor is it a business where we get our spiritual fix and leave a nice tip. The church is God’s people coming together to take ownership of the mission and ministry of Sharing God’s Love.  Together, we share what God already supplied to bring about the reign of our loving God. In so doing, the neighbor rejoices at our generosity and we are enriched as we grow in faith.
 
Our goal this year is to increase support for the general fund by ten percent (10%) over the prior year of giving. The goal is driven by the tremendous needs of our community, by the increasing costs of everything, and mostly, by the trust and faith we have in God to provide in abundance. If the response to this initial letter reaches 10%, we will be finished.
You can make your commitment online through Realm by visiting bit.ly/htlc-Pledge26
 
Please prayerfully consider how you might help us reach our goal and do the work God has called us to do. We are confident that you will be enriched in every way by your generosity. We ask that you respond as soon as possible. We give thanks to God for your response.
 
Pax Christi,
 
Tim Olson – Lead Pastor