OCT Message From Stewardship Committee

Every good and perfect gift is from above,
coming down from the Father.
                                                James 1:17
            Today’s Gospel lesson is Mark 10:17-31.  Jesus and a rich young man were discussing what the young man must do to inherit eternal life.  He replied that he had followed the commandments all of his life.  Jesus knew that the man’s wealth was an obstacle and told him to sell everything and give to the poor.  Then the man would have “treasure in heaven.”  He could not do that and so went away sad.
            Most of us here at Christ Church do not consider ourselves “wealthy”.  Why did Jesus say that it was difficult for the rich man to enter the kingdom?  Could it be that often the rich are focused on accumulating wealth (and perhaps the power or prestige) that it brings them instead of focusing on the Lord?  It is not a sin to be rich.  What matters is what you do with your financial blessings and what is important in your life.
            What is a “tithe”?  It is returning the “first fruits” or 10% to God.  Remember that he has endowed us with skills to earn our income.  In Genesis 28:22 following Jacob’s dream, he vowed to give to God a tenth. When we give back 10% to God, we can keep 90% for our own use.  Does that sound like a good deal?
        During this month of October, there will be a focus on Stewardship.  The committee asks you to prayerfully consider what you are able to pledge for the coming year.