11-12-17

Today we will consecrate our “Estimates of Giving” in worship.  There are Estimate of Giving Cards and envelopes in the pew racks if you need one.  These Estimates of Giving are “good faith” estimates of what we will return to God through Eastminster Presbyterian Church in 2018.  They are private between you and God.  Our Church Business Administrator will total them and give the total to the Finance Committee so that Eastminster leaders may prayerfully and prudently budget to fulfill our mission and ministry commitments and goals.  As all giving is between the giver and God, this is not a contract but a faithful expression of intent.

As you prayerfully consider what you will return to the Lord, I encourage you to consider “taking a step up” in giving by creating “margin” in what is spent and saved so that a tithe is set aside for return to God in thanksgiving.  As we all join in, I believe we will joyfully experience God’s pleasure, mature in faith, and “let our light shine” as commanded and empowered by Jesus.

Part of giving is thanksgiving.  After Sunday worship there will be a Celebration Luncheon.  Please plan to be present.  It will be an old fashioned “Sunday Dinner” complete with roast, mashed potatoes, roasted veggies and a delicious dessert whose recipe goes back generations.  At lunch, we will celebrate God’s goodness, recognize those who have joined the church in the last year, those who are long term members, and those who are 90 years old and above.  It will be a meaningful time as all members unite to celebrate, even as we prepare to serve in significant ways in the coming year.

As my heart turns to thanksgiving, I am especially grateful for all who have served so willingly and faithfully in various capacities of church life.  Eastminster is known for its “can do” attitude and willingness of highly competent people.  The Rummage Sale last week, the Kirkin o’ th’ Tartans, Day of Hope, Vacation Bible School, special musicals, mission trips, education and spiritual formation events, children and youth activities, facilities improvements and fellowship events have been led and run by myriads of volunteers in ministry who overcome obstacles such as Hurricane Irma to shine light in our community and beyond.  Way to Go!

I am also grateful for our Church and preschool staff who dedicate heart and soul to serving and see Eastminster as a ministry and not a “job.”  Their joy and yours are contagious and inspiring!  As we consecrate our gifts and our lives, may Jesus’ words in Matthew 5:14-16 ring true:

 “You are the light of the world. A city built on a hill cannot be hid. No one after lighting a lamp puts it under the bushel basket, but on the lampstand, and it gives light to all in the house.  In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven.”

In our giving and our living, may we bear light!  
Pastor Tim