June Stewardship Corner

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Did you know that “Eucharist” comes from the Greek word for thanksgiving, or gratefulness?

– So sharing communion with each other during worship service is the very act of gratitude & thanksgiving!

One of the most touching reminders of this occurred a few years ago at Vancouver’s Church of the Good Shepherd, on a Sunday the Children’s Choir sang. During communion, as pastor gave bread to each of the children, Natalie looked up, held her hands open – and with a huge smile on her face as she took the bread – spontaneously said, “THANK YOU!” Her joy in receiving Christ lit up her face. I have treasured that experience, as simple and fleeting as it was.

As Marcellino D’Ambrosio wrote: “… [Jesus] gave his whole, entire self to us–his body, blood, soul, divinity. The only adequate response would be to offer ourselves…So thanksgiving cannot be separated from sacrifice. The Eucharist is a celebration of his love and the freedom it won for us through his sacrifice. Through it, the love of God is poured into our hearts and enables us to love with his love. In the power of that love, we offer ourselves back to him and enter into that sacrifice which we celebrate…”

I want my response to Christ’s sacrificial gift to be as joyful and spontaneous as Natalie’s. Giving financial support and participating in the life of our church is the way I offer myself back to God; the way to open my hands and heart to God’s incredible love – and say, “Here I am, LORD. Thank you!”

Maureen Walker

Blessings on your stewardship journey!