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The church is a business, but not in the truest sense of the word. The primary objective of a business is to make money. A church's primary objective should be measured by how many people have been introduced to Jesus Christ. By having individuals pledging their talents and time, as well as their treasure, you achieve a more holistic view of the church. For individuals who cannot contribute as much money as another member doesn't make them a less valuable member of the church. Some churches have taken this and incorporated "special offerings", where members aren't asked to put money in the collection plate, but a commitment to the church that they will pledge their time one week and their talents the next. The "poorest" person in the church may actually be the "wealthiest" by sharing themselves. All of this takes the focus off the "money" and puts the emphasis on the importance of the person and their role in the life of the church. It should change your perception as you hear the word "Stewardship". Instead or hearing "they're asking for more money again", it should invoke feelings of service and commitment to God and His church. If we place our emphasis on the person, instead of the money, God will provide everything we need to continue using our church to reach those in our community and around the world. That is to say, by placing our trust and faith in God he will continue to richly bless our church. Start praying about your individual view on "Stewardship". Ask that God open your heart to reach out and help someone in need and not focus on what's in it for you. If we serve God by sharing with Him the talents that he gave us, by donating our time to work for Him (and not for ourselves) and by sharing our treasure (which He also gave to us), he will bless us in ways that none of us could ever imagine. It is a simple concept, but one that may not be easy to accept. Our goal at West View United Methodist Church should not be dollar driven, but spiritually driven. Think about it. What's more important. A ten dollar bill (or even a hundred) in the collection plate or setting aside ten minutes to pray for the church? Which do you think will go further? That's not to say the church doesn't need any money, but money is not the only thing that the church needs. People are needed to fill the various positions in the church that keep the church "alive". If we all together as a church family are willing to work together to change past perceptions, we can truly move closer in our individual relationships with God. It is important to remember that it is not "our church", but God's house. We are here to take care of it and to truly be a house where we have open hearts, open minds and open doors. Tithe if you love Jesus...anyone can honk! |