This is an important moment for Central Church as many of our
families are thinking about the financial impact we are making and will
make. Last Sunday in my sermon, I tried to make the point that the
ancient Stoics from Greco-Roman times were on to something. For
they believed that the really good life was found, not in a life of
grasping at those things we don’t yet have, but instead by learning
to want what we already have.
How do we do that? Well, by generously giving thanks for what we already possess,
and finding that it really is enough. This can feel like a stretch some days,
but worth the stretch if we are to make an impact beyond ourselves.
I’ve had times in my life when I was downright possessed with wanting
some shiny object I’d not yet acquired or bought. But, praise be,
I’ve also known times when I was able to see blessing and provision around me,
and it had little to do with having more money coming in. Less was enough.
Relationships were enough. This present moment was enough. God’s
Grace was enough. And I could loosen up, get over myself enough to
see needs outside of myself, and s-t-r-e-t-c-h out a bit. And that is
the sweet spot for stewarding my wealth, so that I see ways to
make impact beyond my own needs. I imagine the same is true for
you.
So, where are you glad to be making an impact?
Here is a sampling from the IMPACT cards being written and displayed
at the church, where folks are responding to the question:
“Where do you see your giving making an impact through Central Church?”
-Helping immigrants to find a new home
-Helping the gay couple know they can follow Jesus here
-Being a church that gives justice, mercy, and love and so builds up the community
-Our partnership with our Haitian neighbors through Soaring Unlimited
-As members of another UM church, we make an impact together through our Ministry Shares
-Providing a living wage for our church staff
-Music that helps me sense the presence of God
-Bettering our TC community because of the ways we are “reaching beyond our doors”
-Classes that help me on the journey to a thinking faith
I am so grateful for the positive impact we are called to make
together in this time. You inspire me, and yet more is asked of us all.
So, let’s keep the list going.
Where are you feeling the impact of your gifts making a difference?
You received a Giving Impact Card in the mail. Please return those this Sunday in worship!
Full of hope,
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