This Sunday, we will hear from the Gospel according to Luke (12:32-40) as Jesus instructs his disciples to not be afraid, to sell their possessions in order to give alms. It is a challenging passage for us who have many possessions and are still often afraid of not having enough. What Jesus seems to be saying is, “If you’re worried about not having enough, then give something away.” That’s seems like strange advice, but it actually makes sense. We have all heard the wisdom that when we are concerned about ourselves it helps to focus our attention on someone else’s needs. The word, “alms,” comes from roots that mean mercy and compassion. When we’re worried about ourselves, offering relief to others through acts of mercy and compassion is often just what we need.
Please continue to pray for all the war-torn places of our world, including South Sudan. Our parishioners, Larry Duffee and his Sudanese wife, Suzi, who have been living and working in Sudan to promote education for years, are currently in Nairobi, Kenya. Larry reports that he will try to get back to Juba, in South Sudan, this weekend. Conditions are very dangerous. See his complete letter here, and you can learn more about the situation through these news articles produced by Episcopal News Service.
Giving to St. George’s is an act of mercy. When you contribute to our ministry together through financial gifts, you are making it possible for our clergy, staff, and facilities to operate so that this parish is a place of prayer, hope, and relief for anyone who comes to the door.
I invite you to learn about a young woman, Adrienne Davis, who is preparing to give of herself as a missionary with workers in Hong Kong, as part of the Young Adult Service Corps of the Episcopal Church. Adrienne has been a parishioner at the Celtic service during her time at the University of Mary Washington and has helped some with our youth ministry: To learn more and see her video, visit this link: Meet Adrienne Davis
Opportunities abound to share of our possessions (which include time, talent, and treasure) and give alms, tangible signs of mercy and compassion. The freedom to give is the freedom to love. How is God calling you to lay down your fears, give, and walk in God’s love?
Your brother in Christ,
Joe+
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