October 24, 2019 by Jesse Lebus
Helping the Kingdom Come About
Adapted from A Spirituality of Fundraising, by Henri Nouwen
Stewardship is a very concrete way to help the kingdom of God come about. What is the kingdom? Jesus is very clear that if we make the kingdom our first priority, “all these things will be given to you as well.” (Matt. 6:33) The kingdom is where God provides for all that we need. It is the realm of sufficiency where we are no longer pulled here and there by anxiety about having enough. “So do not worry about tomorrow.” (Matt. 6:34)
Jesus also compares the kingdom to a mustard seed, “which, when sown upon the ground, is the smallest of all the seeds on earth; yet when it is sown it grows up and becomes the greatest of all shrubs, and puts forth large branches, so that the birds of the air can make nests in its shade.” (Mark 4:32-32) Even a seemingly small act of generosity can grow into something far beyond what we could ever ask or imagine - the creation of a community of love in this world, and beyond this world, because wherever love grows, it is stronger than death. (1 Cor. 13:8)
So when we give ourselves to planting and nurturing love here on earth, our efforts will reach out beyond our own chronological existence. Indeed, if we share our money for the creation of a community of love, we are helping God build the kingdom. We are doing exactly what we are supposed to do as Christians. Paul is clear about this: “Pursue love and strive for the spiritual gifts.” (1 Cor. 14:1)
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Greetings St. Luke's, Friends & Family,
This Sunday we kick off our Every Member Canvass, St. Luke’s annual stewardship campaign. Our hope is to raise $145,000 in pledges to support our church and its work of bringing about the kingdom of God. Of course (as I’ve said in other places) pledging is about “keeping the lights on”, but it is also about keeping a different sort of light on: the light of Christ. St. Luke’s is a beacon, shining through a very foggy world, guiding people - making straight the way - to an experience of God’s kingdom.
Our financial support keeps the light of Christ shining for the sake of the Kingdom. If you have never pledged, please consider doing so. If you are a regular pledging person or family, please consider increasing your pledge. The act of sharing resources is spiritual discipline so I commend this request to your prayers. May God guide you!
Fr. Jesse