“…for God loves a cheerful giver.” 2 Corinthians 9:7
Verse 8 continues “And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.” What a remarkable passage on giving! It has become my favorite over the years.
As I write my last Stewardship Corner article, I can’t help but reflect on my 10-plus years on the Stewardship Committee, the last 6 years serving as Chair. It’s been a wonderful experience. I’m sure some of you are shaking your heads and thinking to yourself “Religion and money? Throw in politics, and you have everything your parents told you not to talk about!” But, asking for money isn’t difficult when you believe that everything we have has been given to us by God. We are only giving back from that which God has given us.
As with any organization, change can bring about new ideas and different ways of doing things. This is good. After more than 10 years, I feel it is the right time for change and for me to step down and someone else take the helm. I have enjoyed my experience, and the time has passed by quickly. When I reflect on some of the annual stewardship events (the fall roundup, the small dinners and large dinners, Stewardship the Musical, the First Thanksgiving at St. James’, the first and second parking lot tailgate get-togethers, and many others), I can’t help but smile, laugh, and feel good about the community at St. James’. And thank you to those who have commented to me about my articles in the Stewardship Corner. Your thoughts were much appreciated.
I would like to say thank you to our Rector, Lori Walton, for her support and never once telling me that my ideas were, let me say sometimes a little “unconventional” when it came to stewardship. Lori has always been there to listen, help, and encourage me, which meant a lot. I have been fortunate to have served with a dedicated and enthusiastic group of St. James’ parishioners. I can’t express enough my thanks and gratitude to the current committee (Sandra Motley, Ruth Poole, George Vlastelica, Adrienne Farrell, and Lauren Doherty) for their help, support, and friendship. I wouldn’t have lasted this long without their encouragement and guidance. Thank you, also, to Lynn Locher, who proceeded me as Chair and continued to provide assistance over the years. St. James’ has many able and talented members who give of their time, talent, and treasure. Thank you.
In closing, I’d like to say a few more words about giving. The more we give, the more we delight in our giving – and the more God delights in us. Our giving pleases us. But, more importantly, it pleases God. This doesn’t mean we should give only when we’re feeling cheerful. So, please don’t wait until you feel like giving – it could be a long wait! Just give and watch the joy follow. And, if you haven’t turned in a pledge for 2016 yet, please do so soon.
Thank you for your words of encouragement, your kindness, and your support. And, remember “God loves a cheerful giver!”
~Gail Blalock, Stewardship Chair