One of the most common questions we get by any who come and worship with us for the first time has to do with the offering. . . we don't take one up during worship.
Any who have come from more traditional churches are kinda surprised, especially when they find out that we only have a simple "free-will" offering basket located at the entry table. Is this unusual? We don't think so, and this is why.
The 'Way of Life' nature of following God in Jesus Christ means that there is no realm or sphere of our lives that lies beyond God's influence (including money and how we use it). All of us have been entrusted with time, talents and spiritual gifts, and resources to not only serve us, but to also be used to build up the Body of Christ in the world and support the Mission of God in the world.
How we use time, talents and spiritual gifts, and resources matter, especially in our current time and culture.
How we use our time matters to God.
How we use the gifts God has given us matters to God.
How we care for the resources and use them to better this world matters to God.
One method to see what matters most to us is to look at how we spend our time, talents, and money. Our calendars, credit card usage and checkbook records provide 'baseline indicators' of where some of our priorities and passions are located. It is common knowledge that people give towards things that matter to them and make a difference in their lives.
As a Christian community, we believe that God, and God's work in the world matters, therefore the offering of time, talent, and monies toward God directed purposes is of critical importance, both to the ongoing the work of the church, and to our spiritual formation and well-being as Christians. If there is a need for time, talent, or financial support, the leaders of the community communicate it to the assembly. Or, a more common occurrence, members communicate a need to the gathered community and many will step up as they feel called to give of their time, talent, or financial support.
As the biblical parable of the 'widow's mite' (mark 12:41-44) indicates, it is not the actual dollar amount that is significant, but the intention of the heart that gives.
Giving of time, talent, and resources at any level is welcomed and greatly appreciated. If you are moved to share, contact us through the contact page of this website, or better yet, come and share your time with us on Sunday mornings.
