Dear Friends,
As we anticipate the refreshing changes of spring, our church is poised to embark on a spiritual journey of renewal and growth. From April 21st, we will launch into our three-week sermon series titled “Seeds of Generosity.” I am particularly excited about this series and I wish to share with you not just the what and the why, but also the heartfelt spirit behind this initiative.
In many circles, both within and outside the church, the topic of money is often seen as a taboo, something not to be discussed in polite company. This hesitance can stem from various reasons—fear of judgment, the discomfort of vulnerability, or the shadow of past experiences. However, as part of our faith community, it is essential to remember that open discussions about money are not merely practical but profoundly spiritual.
Why Talk About Money?
In the scriptures, Jesus spoke about money and possessions more than almost any other topic. This wasn’t because He was fixated on wealth, but rather because He knew the power money holds over our lives. Jesus understood that our approach to money and possessions speaks volumes about our values, our priorities, and the orientation of our hearts (Matthew 6:21).
Therefore, talking about money within our church is not a departure from spiritual matters but a deep dive into the core of our discipleship. It’s about aligning our resources with our mission to love God and love others. It’s about stewardship, justice, and the kind of sacrificial love that marked Jesus’ ministry on earth.
“Seeds of Generosity” – A Fresh Perspective
Our upcoming series, “Seeds of Generosity,” is designed to be both inspirational and challenging. Over three weeks, we will explore what the Bible says about the power and potential of our offerings, how stewardship can be a joyful way of life, and the importance of starting strong with our first fruits. Here’s a brief glimpse into each week:
Week 1: “The Power of Offering: Unlocking Heaven’s Storehouse” – We will explore how our offerings do more than support the church’s budget. They are a key to unlocking God’s storehouse of blessing and provision. By giving, we participate in God’s economy of abundance, not the world’s economy of scarcity.
Week 2: “Stewardship as a Way of Life: Planning to Give” – This session will help us see that stewardship is not just about occasional giving but about integrating our financial decisions into our daily walk with Christ. Planning to give is planning to grow in our faith and our dependence on God.
Week 3: “A Commitment to Start Strong: First Fruits of Faith” – We will discuss the biblical concept of first fruits and how this principle can guide us in making a strong, proactive commitment in our spiritual and financial lives. It’s about giving our best and trusting God to bless the rest.
Building Excitement and Breaking Barriers
This series is not just for those who are comfortable with their finances, nor is it only for those who have plenty to give. It is for everyone in every state of life because generosity is not about the amount but the heart behind it. We want to create a space where everyone, regardless of their financial situation, feels empowered to participate in what God is doing in and through our community.
As we approach these topics, let us do so with open hearts and minds, ready to be challenged and changed. Let us shake off any reluctance and embrace the liberating joy of giving. Let’s talk, learn, and grow together in generosity, trusting that as we sow generously, we will also reap generously (2 Corinthians 9:6).
Conclusion
So, I invite each of you, my dear friends, to join us as we embark on this journey of “Seeds of Generosity.” It’s more than a sermon series; it’s an opportunity to transform how we view and use the resources God has entrusted to us. Let us approach this series not as a challenge to be met with trepidation but as an adventure to be embraced with joy.
May we all find in this series a refreshing new perspective on generosity that springs forth like new life in spring. Here’s to growing together in faith, love, and generosity.
In Christ’s love and service,
Mark Wilhelm
Pastor
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