I love fall! It is the time of year when the air and the apples are crisp, the spooky decorations are hung around town above the mums, and we begin to prepare our hearts and homes for the celebrations ahead.
In the life of the church this is also the time that Session begins to look at the budget and to make decisions about our priorities moving forward into the next year. We want to be responsible stewards of all that God has given to us including our rich worship and music life, engaging Christian education for all ages, maintaining our buildings and property, and offering caring ministries both inside and outside our doors that address the needs of those who are hurting.
The prophet Isaiah writes, “If you offer your food to the hungry and satisfy the needs of the afflicted, then your light shall rise in the darkness and your gloom be like the noonday.” (Is. 58:10) These words may guide us in the way God calls us to prioritize using gifts and offerings. In the kingdom of God, it is by directly addressing suffering and satisfying those in need that our light shines. And you’ve even named that as our mission to Shine God’s Light!
As Stewardship season begins this fall, let’s be mindful of what it looks like to respond to God’s grace and love by giving generously to help those who are hurting. “For when you do it to one of the least of these you do it to me.” The Stewardship mailing will reach your mailbox in the next week or so. Keep your eyes peeled to grab this opportunity to allow FPC to continue quality teaching, worshiping, and caring as a beacon of hope in these uncertain times. Every gift – large or small – is appreciated and will help to make ministry happen in God’s name in 2022.
Isaiah continues in verse 11 with this promise of hope: “The Lord will guide you continually, and satisfy your needs in parched places, and make your bones strong; and you shall be like a watered garden, like a spring of water, whose waters never fail.” What a beautiful vision of God’s provision for us to live into!
Thanks be to God!
Rev. Amy