March 9, 2023 — “Contribute Regularly”

“From you comes my praise in the great congregation; my vows I will pay before those who fear him. The poor shall eat and be satisfied; those who seek him shall praise the Lord. May your hearts live forever!” Psalm 22:25-26

When any organization looks to bring volunteers on board, they look to people who might be able to contribute specific amounts of time and energy. The more that people are able to contribute to a ministry, a mission, or a task, the more the organization depends on their experience. Contributing regularly, whether it is of our time, our resources, or our gifts then not only helps to fulfill the mission and ministries of any organization, but it also means that our stewardship becomes a lifestyle.

If there is something we enjoy doing, the more we do it, the better we become, and the more natural it feels. We see this in the areas of sports, music, business, and even in the church. If you want to be an Olympian, you need to devote many, many years to your sport. If you want to be a success in business, you must spend many, many hours honing your business skills. And if you want to be a follower of Jesus, it helps to spend many, many hours reading the scriptures, understanding his teachings, and following his commands. Jesus tells us that to live in relationship with him, we must remain in him — “Abide in me as I abide in you. Just as the branch cannot bear fruit by itself unless it abides in the vine, neither can you unless you abide in me.” And to remain in Jesus, we must contribute many, many days, hours and years in honing our following skills.

Let us pray: Dear G-d, learning to follow you takes time, intention, and regular contribution. Help me to contribute to my faith and faith understanding every day. Amen.

Pastor Dave

March 8, 2023 — “Commit Intentionally”

“… arrange in advance for this bountiful gift that you have promised.” 2 Corinthians 9:5

“You are the God who works wonders; you have displayed your might among the peoples. With your strong arm you redeemed your people, the descendants of Jacob and Joseph. Psalm 77:14-15

To commit intentionally to something means making a statement about your intent and following through. As members in the body of Christ, we are asked to make a commitment of our time, talents, and resources as a faithful response to God and as a statement of support for G-d’s work. Again Paul says “… arrange in advance for this bountiful gift that you have promised.”
(2 Corinthians 9:5) When we discern how we might commit to saving money, commit to an exercise regimen, or commit to giving abundantly and sacrificially of our time, talents or resources, our success in persevering often depends on our intentionality. In other words, we must consider this question: “Are we committed to being intentional – doing it every day, every week, and every month?”

Paul says we will have more success if we choose to arrange in advance – to plan ahead – and then stick to the plan. It is more difficult to provide ministries to the community if our congregation does not make out a plan, seek volunteers ahead of time, or get commitments for crucial aspects of the ministry. And to be able to provide the kinds of ministries our community needs takes the commitment of many volunteers – intentional commitment of time. This Lent, look for ways you can commit more time to the ministry of your church – and when you find the time, be intentional with your commitment.

Let us pray: Dear G-d, help me not only commit to a closer relationship with you, but to be intentional with my whole life. Amen.

Pastor Dave