“What God has joined together, let no one separate.” Mk 10:9
As evidenced in our reading about marriage today, in our relationships with animals, and our relationship with our church, God has joined together financial stewardship and stewardship of relationships. We learn that what we do with our money and what we do with our love are categories so entwined and entangled that they are essentially inseparable.
Question for contemplation: In what ways in my own life does my spending reflect my commitment to God and relationships?
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I thought the idea of Notes of Gratitude was great. The point being that we should be giving gratitude every day. Thank people when you see them for something special. Always say please and thank you. Write a note – drop and email.
Thanksgiving is NOT just a holiday and NOT just an Sept/Oct function – it is Eucharist. Wake up and thank the Lord for a new day and that you are part of it. Thank God for home, health, loved ones, friends, clothes, food and sunshine. Keep that attitude throughout your day and you’ll see how the little annoyances will disappear.
As for our financial giving. We give to God that which is His in Thanksgiving for allowing us the privlage and responsibility of using His gifts. WE DO NOT GIVE TO GAIN. We do not blackmail God or His church. Give gratitude and thanks as a way of love and response.
We are blessed. Enjoy it and return the blessing.
Ann
TOWN HALL MEETING ON DEC. 17
ATT: GREG RHODES
Thank you Greg for giving us some clarity regarding the Budget for 2010. It is impossible to hold a dialog when only one side has any information.
I would beg you, or the powers that be, to provide us with a Proposed Budget (even a 1st draft) for the Jan. 10 meeting, so that earnest dialog may occur. There may be many creative untapped ideas within the congregation, that would be discovered IF we had some information. A power point (to save paper and ink expense) would be sufficient.
It was my understanding, prior to the Town Hall, that the Vestry wanted our input and suggestions, as relates to issues that will be voted on, or approved, at our Annual Meeting. This did not seem to be the case. With Propsed Budget in hand, is it possible for the member of GS to offer suggestions for balancing it?
Again, thank you and Ken for all you do for our Stewardship and for your candid, honest answers to questions raised. You are greatly appreciated.
Blessings and Grace to you.
Ann Whitfield