December 12, 2011
Dear St. Andrew’s family,
Christmas is often a whirlwind experience filled with shopping, wrapping, and gift giving. Ironically, the greatest gift ever given was wrapped not in shiny ribbon and colorful paper but in swaddling clothes to be placed in a humble manger.
When the wise men visit this newborn Jesus, the Bible recounts it this way:
“When they saw the star, they were overjoyed. On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold and of incense and of myrrh.” (Matt. 2:10-12)
Their journey begins with joy and is sustained through worship. Part of their worship involved opening their treasures to present Him with gifts. There was no requirement to give, but when they saw Jesus they could not contain their generosity.
The Magi’s experience serves as the basis of our gift giving during this season. Generosity stems from our joy in, and our worship of, Christ. Therefore, I invite you to consider how you might once again come to the manger this Christmas with your treasure to the King of Kings.
At St. Andrew’s, we have two traditions in December through which we can tangibly respond to Jesus with hearts of worship and generosity.
First, consider a special year-end (or Christmas) gift to the Lord.
Many give at this time as an expression of celebration, love and thankfulness for Jesus. Typically, over 20% of our annual ministry budget comes during December. These special year-end gifts become a vital part of fulfilling God’s calling and reaching our community and world for Christ.
Second, ponder making a faith commitment for 2012 if you haven’t done so already.
This is not intended as a pledge or promise but as a prayerful giving goal. The purpose of the St. Andrew’s commitment card is to create a precious dialog between you and God about your trust and His faithfulness. It also provides a valuable tool to help the church leadership plan wisely and be good stewards of God’s resources in the coming year. Thank you if you have already made a commitment for 2012.
I believe the greatest joy offered this season is when we follow the star and bow down to give honor to Jesus. Thank you for your faithfulness and generosity throughout the year and for prayerfully discerning how you may help with a special gift this Christmas season.
With great anticipation in Christ,
Richard Kannwischer
Saturday, February 25 at 5:30 p.m.
Kelly Dickson
The Story
"Hide and Seek"
Sunday, February 26 at 8:00, 9:30, and 11:11 a.m.
Richard Kannwischer
The Story
"Safety Announcement"
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St. Andrews
Presbyterian Church
