Enough: Discovering Joy Through Simplicity and Generosity
One of Jesus’ great teaching parables involves a sower who cast seed along the ground. The sower hoped the seeds would sprout, grow, and bear good fruit. Some seeds did just that, producing a great harvest. But others, Jesus said, fell among thorns and, though they began to grow, these good plants were quickly choked out. Jesus said the thorns were “the cares of the world and the lure of wealth” (Matthew 13:22).
In a culture where having “enough” seems to have become a never-ending pursuit, Jesus’ parable remains incredibly relevant. Many of us are chasing the American dream in ways that lead to stress, anxiety, and fear—thorns that can rob us of the ability to enjoy the abundant lives of purpose that God intended for us.
All of us have struggled with these issues at one time or another. They are important issues that we cannot ignore. This is why, over the next [number] weeks, we will be having a churchwide study and worship emphasis called Enough: Discovering Joy Through Simplicity and Generosity. During this time, we will explore what the Bible teaches us about financial management through corporate worship and small group study. (Visit [church website address] for details about small group study opportunities.) We’ll hear expert advice and stories about what others have learned by working through financial challenges. Each week we will provide you with some practical tools you can use to assess your financial situation and develop a financial plan with a biblical foundation.
At the conclusion of the emphasis, we will have the opportunity to make personal commitments of our offerings to God through our church in the coming year. We will consecrate these commitments in the worship service Sunday, July 21 during both worship services.
I hope you will join us in the coming weeks as we look at how we can manage our financial resources and truly experience simplicity, generosity, and joy.
Schedule of Events
June 20 | “When Dreams Become Nightmares”
July 7 | “Wisdom and Finance”
July 14 | “Cultivating Contentment”
July 21 | “Defined by Generosity”
July 21 | Consecration Sunday
July 28 | Celebration Sunday
Stewardship Throughout the Year: Three “Pockets”
Pocket #1: General Fund
The General Fund is the primary operating fund into which most of the income is deposited and from which most of the expenses are paid. It is accounted for annually. Expenses cover the life and responsibilities of the church missions.
Pocket #2: Capital Campaign
Capital campaign contributions are donations made above and beyond regular giving and normal tithes and offerings. The recent campaign, Renew-Restore-Revive, began in 2018 to raise funds for updating the church’s infrastructure to better support our various missions i.e., shower ministry, food distribution, virtual and in person worship services etc.
Pocket #3: Legacy Builders
Legacy Builders are individuals and families that have made end of life plans to include the church. Legacy Funds are given to a Permanent Fund to expand the witness and mission of Florence Christian Church for future generations. Income from the Permanent Fund investments will be spent for church ministry in future years.
