Boldly Invite All To New Levels Of Generosity

by Andy Gustafson, Associate Conference Minister

October/November 2006

The visiting preacher was really getting the congregation moving. Near the end of his sermon he said ‘this church has really got to walk,’ to which someone in the back yelled, “let her walk preacher!” The preacher then said ‘if this church is going to go, it’s got to get up and run,’ to which someone again yelled with gusto, “let her run preacher!” Feeling the surge of the church, the preacher then said with even louder gusto, ‘if this church is going to go, it’s got to really fly!’ and once again with ever greater gusto, someone yelled, “let her fly preacher, let her fly!” The preacher then seized the moment and stated with even greater gusto, ‘if this church is really going to fly, it’s going to need money’ to which someone in the back yelled, “let her walk preacher, let her walk.”

Do we want to fly? Do we want our churches to be beacons of hope, purpose, meaning, extravagant welcome, faith and justice? Do we want to see God’s kingdom spread throughout the Commonwealth of Massachusetts? Do we want an authentic Christianity preached and practiced throughout the state – one that is more concerned with justice than self-interest, values love and acceptance over judgment and exclusion, and boldly proclaims the Gospel of peace? Do we really want to soar into God’s future?

If so, it will take money.

Now is not the time to be shy or reticent about asking for money, but rather to boldly invite all who would follow Christ to new levels of generosity.

Remember, the work of stewardship is holy work. When we help people become more generous, they become closer to God, and their hearts and very lives are transformed.

Jesus said “Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant in search of fine pearls; on finding one pearl of great value, he went and sold all that he had and bought it.” (Matt. 13:45-46).

Our churches are of great value. Our Conference and the United Church of Christ are of great value. Let us all give generously so together we may soar!