God is full of surprises. Just when I think I have him figured out he does something quite different. The following is just such an example. A few years back, this little vignette actually happened—let’s just call it “Out of the mouth of babes.” After making the trip to the Post Office, my daily ritual, I noticed a letter to the “Walworth County Emergency Shelter”, a homeless shelter which our church started and coordinated. I opened the envelope with anticipation. A short letter was wrapped around a check for $10. Then a second check appeared for $20 and finally a third check for $200. The letter was brief; it was from Debbie Burtard, youth and family Ministry Director from the First United Methodist Church in Elkhorn. It read:
“Here is part of a larger contribution that our children are trying to raise to help the homeless in our county. The children at Elkhorn First United Methodist Church have set a goal to raise $500.00 for your cause. At our Vacation Bible school this summer we raised money to benefit the Emergency Shelter and the Sunday School program is continuing the collection until we reach our goal.
May God’s many graces continue to bless the work you are doing and know that along with our gifts we are praying for your ministry.
In His glory,
Debbie Burtard”
This is the season of the year when churches of every denomination are working to encourage stewardship and preparation for next year’s budget. When you prayerfully consider your pledge to Shepherd of the Hills Church and its ministry, please ponder the following:
- The children set a goal to give of what they did not yet have.
- They gave before they were asked to give.
- They gave because they knew their gifts would make a difference.
- They gave outside of their own self-interest.
- They continue to pray for the ministry to which they have given as they continue to work on behalf of that ministry.
- In short, they gave because they believed it is what God wanted them to do.
On top of all this, don’t you find it ironic that we have children caring for adults when it is getting harder and harder to get adults to care in the same way. Maybe that is why Jesus was so passionate about having the children come to him, no strings attached, no politics, no distrust, no excuses, just sublime faith.
What do you believe God wants you to do with your gifts and resources? Will you be bold and generous in your giving, your working and your praying? Remember that those who risk nothing, in the end, risk everything.
Fr. Bill Myrick
