Being a good steward of all that God has given to us is the heart of what it means to be a Christian.  A Christian by definition is a Christ follower and one who honor's Christ.  And if there is anything that can be said about Christ it's that he was a faithful steward right to the very end of his ministry on earth.  Jesus reflects back upon his ministry as he prays to God saying, (John 17:4) "I have glorified you on the earth.  I have finished the work which you have given me to do."  Jesus, as a perfect steward, sacrificially gave of his time, gifts, and all of his talents in service to others.  He could have avoided the cross.  No one would have blamed him, besides he loved, taught and healed in a mighty way and yet he was still rejected.  But Jesus did not stop until he accomplished the very thing he came to do.  He came to die upon the cross for our sins and he developed a team of disciples who would take that message to the ends of the earth and establish the church upon the foundation of Christ.  In final analysis, he was a faithful steward because he finished what God had intended for His ministry.

Now it is our turn to look at ourselves and our ministry.  During the month of October we traditionally look at our ministry and the tasks that God has set before us both collectively and individual.  This will involve an examination of our gifts, time, talents and our resources.

It was because Jesus loved the Father and because Jesus loved us that he willingly became a steward.  Now motivated by our love for God and for each other, let us pray that we would all consider what we should give as stewards of all of God's blessings.  May it be said of us that we have glorified God on earth and finished the work which God gave us to do.

Our Stewardship Campaign "Consecration Sunday" will begin Sunday, October 19, which will be our Celebration Luncheon.  On that day we will bring forward our estimate of giving for the next year.  Thank you for your prayers.  Together as good stewards, we will continue to be a blessing in our community.

Tim