Hi Friends!
Happy New Year! I pray that 2013 holds many joyous moments for us along with great growth in Christ.
As you know by now, this Sunday is our special offering for our Christian Education classrooms addition. January 6 has traditionally been celebrated by the Christian church as “Epiphany”, remembering the visit of the Magi to the child Jesus. Just as those wise men brought their valuable gifts to the Lord, we will do the same. Just as the poor widow (Luke 21) set an example for the rest by her faithful, sacrificial giving, I hope and pray we will follow suit. Just as people gave as the Lord stirred their hearts in the days of the tabernacle and the temple, so I pray that our hearts will be moved to accomplish the goal the Lord has laid before us! This offering will take place early in the service, and will be separate from our normal general fund offering. In preparation for Sunday, I invite any who would like to join me in fasting and prayer for the special offering. We will be praying for the gifts, and just as important, the hearts of the givers. You can choose to fast from one meal, two, or the whole day. It’s up to you; the point is for us to diligently seek God’s face. I realize that some have already given generously toward this offering. Thank you! And please continue to pray for the others who will bring their gifts this Sunday.
As I read today’s Bible reading, I was struck by one more aspect of giving that we should consider:
But I say to you that everyone who is angry with his brother will be liable to judgment; whoever insults his brother will be liable to the council; and whoever says, ‘You fool!’ will be liable to the hell of fire. 23 So if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you, 24 leave your gift there before the altar and go. First be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift. (Matthew 5:22-24 ESV)
This is of course from the mouth of Jesus Himself. As I said, the hearts of the givers are just as (if not more) important than the gifts themselves. So maybe there are some who need to be reconciled with somebody before offering your special gift. How God will bless those who are obedient to His Word!
The sermon Sunday will be from Luke 20:19-26; 45-47. Please read that before coming to worship. The title is “What Should I Give Him?” But it is not just another message about giving; actually it’s the first message of three on exalting the Lord’s name. Come Sunday to see the connection!
Speaking of connection, there are a couple of dates I’d like to remind you of:
January 18-19: Mission Connexion, a free missions conference in Vancouver, WA. There is more info on the missions table in the foyer.
February 9: Men’s Video Event – “Stepping Up”. This will be an outstanding time of challenge for us men to live courageous lives. More info will be coming soon, and you can talk with Ron Whitted or me about it.
I’m excited to see what God is going to do in 2013, beginning with this Sunday!
Love From Your Pastor,
Michael