This week, let’s talk about the subject of gift giving, the third of the five commitments we make when we become church members. This coming Sunday is also the pledge Sunday when we pledge to God the money we are willing to bring to the altar for the service of the church and the world. Why the need for financial giving? Biblically, giving money is not to support the church’s institutional needs but an expression of Christian maturity. Money giving is about relationship with God, God’s people, and God’s creation. In other words, giving is not about the need of the church to receive but about the needs of Christian disciples to give as we grow, and grow as we give to become trusting stewards of God’s gifts and God’s creation.
Money means different things to different people. For some, it is a source of power and control while for others it’s a source of security and comfort. One reason that prevents people to give is the fear of not knowing if the money given were used for good causes. Another reason that prevents people to give is the fear of not having enough for a “rainy day” in the future. The third reason people do not give is the belief that what they contribute is too insignificant to make a difference. Jesus deals with each of the above reasons in different parts of the four gospels, “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust consume and where thieves break in and steal; 20 but store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust consumes and where thieves do not break in and steal. 21 For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” (Matthew 6:19-21)
Ultimately, our pledge is to God; that is why we call it “faith pledge” at Chapel Hill. Our commitment is to God and our service is to one another as well as to people beyond the church’s wall. We give because we realize our responsibility, our obligation, and our opportunity. If you have been a generous giver to the church, take these words as an affirmation of what you have been doing. If you have not given (for one reason or the other), I suggest that you make an effort to give little. You will be surprised of what you will experience because “It is more blessed to give than to receive” (Acts 20:35b).
For centuries, the work of the church of Jesus Christ has been to preach, to teach, and to heal. Chapel Hill will continue this work with your contribution. I hope you recognize what God has done for us and recognize that your giving will be used to further the work of God’s Kingdom in this place.
~ Mai
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