STEWARDSHIP REFLECTION: WHY DO YOU GIVE?
I remember taking coins tied into a handkerchief, and being reminded by my parents to put them in the offering plate. At the offertory, I remember the satisfying sound of my coins rattling against the shiny brass offering plates. I remember feeling proud that I’d made a contribution, that I was part of something bigger than myself, that I had something to offer.
When I was first married, and we began having children, I remember that we did not have a lot to give to the church at that time. Money was always tight! I remember being thankful, at that time, for the presence of the church, for that one hour of time I had with my husband to worship each week while our children were in the nursery, Sunday School, or choir. It provided what we needed to face the next week’s challenges. As our children grew, it was always comforting to have a place where we belonged, a place for our girls to learn about God, and life. I was quite aware, at that time, that there were those whose giving made possible all that we received, as individuals, and as a family, from our church home.
Now that our children are grown, and we are in a position to give more, I am grateful for the opportunity to “pay it forward,” as those faithful forebears had done. My gifts, once shared, become part of something bigger than myself, so that God’s glory continues to be revealed in myself, my family, fellow parishioners, the wider community and in the whole world. Thanks be to God!
-Karin Weber, Newcomer and Stewardship Commission member
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