One of the realities of being part of a congregation and also part of the wider church is that we are able to do far more together than any of us ever could on our own.  We pool our resources in order to be able to continue to share the gospel of Jesus Christ in word and in deed.  As we do so, we give according to what we have, and not according to what we don’t have.

 However, we are not talking simply finances here.  The gifts of the Spirit are given to each one in the body of Christ for the common good (1 Cor. 12:7).  People share their time and their talents as they are able and willing, and the contribution of each person is appreciated and valued.  In this way we work together in order to build up the body of Christ (Eph. 4:12).

 At this time in St. Luke’s Zion’s history, we have a unique opportunity to use even more “talents” in mission and ministry.  News of a bequest has come to us – approximately $140,000 from the estate of Florence Kicenko.  This has not yet been received, but is likely to come in the near future.  I cannot help but think of the Chinese symbol for crisis, which I am told contains both danger and opportunity in it.

 The opportunity, of course, should be obvious.  We have the ability to do so much more than we would be able to otherwise.  We have been blessed in order to be a blessing.  We have been entrusted with a gift that can help us greatly in our participation in God’s mission in the world.

 Yet, at the same time, there is danger to be acknowledged.  Some people might feel as if they no longer need to give anything.  At the same time, there is the potential for grave disagreement over how the funds should be used.  Should either of these things happen, the results could be devastating.

 With regard to the first danger, it is important for the ongoing health of this congregation and for the spiritual health of the members that each person continue to give according to their means.  To give is actually a spiritual discipline – an act of worship that solidifies our trust in God for all that is needed.

 As for potential disagreements, I would hope that each person would be open to the leading of the Holy Spirit, as well as the “collective wisdom” that our members possess.  May the opportunity far outweigh the danger!

 It is my hope that we will come up with an open process of decision making that allows for the leading of the Holy Spirit, different people’s input, and coming to a consensus as a congregation.  In anticipation of beginning such a process, here are some questions for you to think about, pray about and talk about:

 What are some of our primary goals as a congregation right now?  How can this bequest assist in reaching those goals?  How could these funds be used to further our mission and ministry in the community? Is there anything we could do that would have an ongoing impact on God’s mission in our world?  What could we do that would share the gospel of Jesus Christ with others?  Let’s think and pray together!

  In Christ,
  Pastor Lynne Hutchison