Dear People of St. Mark’s,

The theme of our stewardship program is We Give! Because. We give because of the vitality of worship, outstanding programs of Christian formation for children, youth, and adults, and our mission of serving the community and the world. These are but a few examples of why we give. You, no doubt, have your reasons.


I would say we also give for a more basic reason. We give because Christ who lives in us is a giver. Jesus was one who gave generously of himself and most supremely on the cross. One of the most meaningful passages of scripture for me comes from Paul: “I have been crucified with Christ, and it is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me; and the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me” (Galatians 2: 19b-20).
 

With Christ as the center of our being, the act of giving is not under compulsion or with an attitude of reluctance. We who are transformed by Christ (see Romans 12:2) give joyfully because we are acting in accordance with a Spirit that is aligned with our soul. True, old habits and attitudes die hard, but with God’s grace we grow in the act of giving.


Giving is not a solo act. Giving occurs in relationship. The primary relationship in our giving is our relationship to God. Giving is between God and us; and God participates in our giving decisions.


Our giving is in relationship to the community of St. Mark’s. The act of making a commitment binds us in a powerful way. Lastly, our giving is in relationship to our community and world. We give because we want to have an impact on our community and the world.
 

We Give! Because we are givers who “walk in newness of life” (Romans 6:4). Join us Sunday, October 30th, for Pledge Sunday to express the Christ that is in you. Just as Jesus’ life had a powerful impact, our giving will impact St. Mark’s, our world, and each one of us.



The Rev. Mike Chalk