From the Stewardship Team

Imagine you are on a beautiful beach. A hundred yards or so out in the water someone has set out some ropes and buoys. Beyond the ropes and buoys are dangerous undertows and shark activity. Within the boundaries, you can swim and play in safety and complete freedom. Can you go beyond the buoys? Of course you can. It’s pretty easy to swim under the ropes and venture out. Is it smart to go beyond the buoys? No, because you’re likely to get sucked down by the undertow or eaten alive by sharks.

Now, think a minute about a budget. It sets safe boundaries for how to use money. By spending [or saving] within limits, you can safely and freely enjoy spending. What happens when we spend [or save] beyond the limits? We get sucked down by the undertow of debt and eaten by a whole series of financial sharks that want a piece of us.

This image provides a way for us to think about boundaries and budgets in financial stewardship with a sense of freedom, rather than a sense of restriction, from a sense of God’s abundance rather than a sense of scarcity.

The act of giving, and the commitment to grow that practice, establishes and encourages our reliance on God. Giving, first to God, is an exercise in spiritual growth and provides cause to increase trust in God rather than in ourselves. A Christian steward manages on behalf of God’s mercy and justice, so that God’s vision might find expression in our world. God has called us to be sure that everyone is fed, safe, and welcomed. We are called to give of ourselves, to share what we have been given, so that this might come to pass.

First Lutheran has a budget. The boundaries of the budget are established using the previous year’s expenses and benevolences, as well as taking into account the giving record of the congregation. Due to the economic climate, it is a ‘bare bones’ budget, no extras for increased giving or to expand programs. The leadership of the church is making a great effort to stay safely within the ropes. If we all do our part, and keep the ropes intact, giving cheerfully and faithfully, God’s mission in this place will continue unhindered. People will be fed, safe and welcomed.

Thank you for generously sharing your time, talents and treasures.

God is good…all the time.
Jackie Mortenson
Stewardship Chair

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