October 2010
During recent weeks we have been reminding ourselves that God provides MORE THAN ENOUGH to meet the needs of the world, our local community and our congregation. It has been exciting to see the many creative ways that members have used their time and talents to multiply the seed money that was distributed on September 12. Celebration Sunday on October 10 will be just that…we will gather for one service at 10 a.m. to rejoice in the ways God has provided for ministries outside of our walls through us.
One of the reasons we embarked on this More Than Enough program was to have concrete examples of how God blesses us, and enjoy that process too. That’s important, especially in anxious times.
I like the comments that Pastor Josef Aalbue makes about dealing with the stress of anxious financial times. His article is quoted by Jerry Hoffman in a recent stewardship resource. First, Pastor Aalbue reminds us that we are not in change…that we never have been and we never will be in charge. Then he notes that as God’s family, God has promised to bless us. Finally, he makes these important points that apply not only to his congregation, but FLC as well:
1. Our command is to love God and love neighbor. Those twin tasks depend on no external circumstances. God supplies us with all that is necessary to follow and to obey.
2. The people in our congregation are exceptionally generous.
3. Our congregation is changing lives.
4. We look into the future with confidence and faith even as many are asking hard questions of themselves about the financial choices they have made. In the midst of that, the congregation is a caring community for people under stress.
5. While we must be careful and responsible as we set a congregational budget, we dare not retreat or doubt that God has promised to be with us, and provide for us.
6. Given that, our focus should not be on what we cannot do, but instead we should dream together, plan together and work together as we attempt to follow our Lord’s call.
7. This is a time for feeding spiritual hunger that cannot be satisfied with what the world has to offer.
This is a “different” way to deal with anxious times…perhaps we can say that it is the faithful way. My hope and prayer is that we will keep these points in mind as each one of us considers our financial support of the church in 2011, and completes the estimate-of-giving card that will soon arrive in your homes. As you consider what you will give to this ministry, remember the energy and enthusiasm of recent week and be assured that through us God provides MORE THAN ENOUGH.
