Greetings to you my dear sisters and brothers. Grace and peace be yours in abundance.
It is a great joy to share with you some further thoughts on Missions and Stewardship as we journey together during this season of the Church year. Let us consider two very important aspects of the ministry of the Church. One relating to missions - the Macedonian Call, and the other finance, which is a matter for both stewardship and missions.
First, the Macedonian Call. Paul and his companions had traveled through the region of Phrygia and Galatia, having been forbidden by the Holy Spirit to speak the word in Asia. However, when they came up to Mysia, they attempted to go into Bithynia, but the Spirit of Jesus did not allow them to enter. So they passed by Mysia, going down to Troas. And there Paul had a vision in the night: a man of Macedonia was standing there, urging him and saying, “Come over to Macedonia and help us.” And when Paul had seen the vision, immediately we sought to go on into Macedonia, concluding that God had called us to preach the gospel to them“ (Acts 16: 9c – 10). The Macedonian Call is a call to come and assist in other areas or places where there is need. Is God speaking to us today to go and assist in places or even ways in which we are not normally involved? If God is speaking to you in such a manner today, do not hesitate to respond to His call.
Second, finance. No matter what persons may say to you or you may hear being expressed about money, the church needs money to carryout Its ministries and mission. Just to give some very vivid examples: in order to reach our members during the periods when we are unable to meet physically at church, we must have the means to broadcast our services in ways that our members can hear and join in worship together. We still need to improve on what we have. Additionally, it is out of the finances we have (contributions of members) we are able to assist members and other persons in times of need.
There are many other areas in the life of the church which require the commitment of our members in giving of their finances.
My sisters and brothers, God has not and will never ever withhold His blessings from us. He has given, He gives and continues to give us. The hymn writer states it beautifully,
“His love has no limits, His grace has no measure,
His power no boundary known unto men;
For out of His infinite riches in Jesus
He giveth, and giveth, and giveth again” (Annie J. Flint, 1866-1932))
God bless you wonderfully.
Yours In The Master’s Business,
Telford D. Matthew (Rev.)
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