When I’m searching for answers to the tough questions of how to give and whether my extra effort of giving will make a difference in this world, it always comes back to just this: I think of how grateful I am that this church is here. I’m grateful to be able to come here and renew myself in faith, to embrace God’s presence and guidance in my life.

I’m grateful that the church is here for my family. I’m grateful that we try to be of help to each other. I am grateful for the care our ministries provide. And I am grateful that we reach out beyond our immediate circle to others in need in the community and to the world through the opportunities provided by this church. The truth is, if we didn’t give, this church wouldn’t be here. It needs to be here. This kind of giving is joyful and it pleases God.