Pastor’s Pen—November 2015

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Several years ago, I was challenged by a friend of mine who is not a person of faith, any faith, as to the reasons why I give to my church and to Christian endeavors. I remember being somewhat shocked by his question but gave him answers that did satisfy his curiosity. However, what I discovered was that his question gave me an opportunity to focus more fully on why I give to my church. Perhaps my reasons for giving are close to yours.

The first reason why I give is because of the Good News of Jesus Christ. Giving is part of my response to a loving, redeeming, and forgiving God. Giving to God through the church and her ministry is just part of my deep down joyful response to what I believe is the Good News of the Gospel. What I do with that Good News of love and grace is to live in joy, confidence, and hope fully knowing what God has done for me and sharing that message with others.

Secondly, I give because there is a need. When I see something or someone not being cared for, I wonder, “What can I do to help?” My giving is usually initiated by being moved to act in response to a need in the church or a need in the world.

Third, I give because it is part of God’s work in the world. As a Christian, I believe that I’m called to share in God’s ongoing work in the world and use the abilities and gifts God has given me to serve my church, my community, and the Kingdom of God.

Fourth, I give because God asks me to through his word. As Christians, we have been blessed with gifts beyond our imagination. Paul says in 2 Corinthians 8:7, “But just as you excel in everything- in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in complete earnestness and in your love for us, see that you also excel in this grace of giving.”

Finally, I give to my church because I want to. I cannot think of a better way of sharing my financial gifts with those who are in physical or spiritual need, with those in crisis, and with those who have never heard of the love God poured out for us in Jesus Christ.

Perhaps you have reasons why you give. If you’d like to share them with me, send me an email at mailto:pastor@flctacoma.org or talk to me face to face. As always, thank you so much for being a blessing to First Lutheran Church.
Grace and Peace, Pastor Steve