|
|
Christmas and Giving Dear Member, Christmas is the gift-giving season. Many of us will be asked, “What do you want for Christmas?” We, in turn, should be thinking about what we’re giving to others. Even though the stores are super-stocked, it is often difficult to find just the right gift for every person on our lists. God had no such problems. He knew exactly what each person needed. In fact, He knows our needs better than we know them, and He knew them before we were ever born. God’s most indescribable gift was perfect. “When the time had fully come, God sent His Son, born of a woman, born under law, to redeem those under law, that we might receive the full rights of sons” (Galatians 4:4). Now, that’s a gift that can’t be topped! Over two thousand years ago, the world received the greatest gift, and it’s the gift that truly keeps on giving! Jesus has given us full rights as children of God. Because of God’s tremendous love for us, He gave and keeps on giving to us. Therefore, giving is also an important part of our lives as Christians. Scripture refers to giving over 2100 times, whereas love is referred to approximately 700 times and prayer fewer than 400 times. Knowing that God wants us to give, we should be asking, “What should I be giving to God?” His Word gives us giving principles that should direct our giving. In 1 Corinthians 16:2, Paul encourages us to give regularly and in proportion to the blessings that we receive. God wants us to give cheerfully (2 Corinthians 9:7). He wants us to make giving a priority (Proverbs 3:9). Our giving is a response to the gifts God has given to us and affords us the opportunity to express our love and obedience to Him. When we give God our first and best, He is pleased. If we give Him our leftovers, our giving dishonors Him. As your pastor, I want to thank you for your generous giving to our Lord for the mission and ministry here at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church. It is a wonderful blessing to have so many of you give so generously of your time, talents, and treasures. God is doing great things through you. Because of your generosity, we are able to share the Good News of our Savior, born on Christmas Day, with many people. As we prepare our hearts for the coming of our Savior, let us remember that, apart from Christ, there is no goodness in us, and, without Him, there is no giving that pleases God (Hebrews 11:6). God’s blessings on your Christmas worship and celebration with loved ones. Have a blessed Christmas!
In
Christ, |
Home
| Pastor's Message | About
Us | Schedule | Organizations
| Youth Activities
Education
| Missions | Location
| Contact Us | Links|
Cong. News
