From the council-Jerry Clark

​Merriam-Webster defines stewardship as the conducting, supervising or managing of something. The careful and responsible management of something entrusted in one’s care.
But what does stewardship mean in the Bible?
In the macro, it’s the same, but in managing all the resources bestowed upon us by God. And it is our responsibility as God's collaborators, to maintain and manage this gift. You can think of this as something we do at CGS through our ministries.
So how does our mission and vision relate to us being good stewards?
You know that our mission and ministries at CGS can only happen because of our spiritual will and financial gifts. These generous offerings are the resources that propel our mission. And yes, it is real money and time that help to provide our spiritual things!
As a follower of Jesus, shouldn’t it only be an "option" to give a financial gift?
Well ... the practice of generosity is a faith discipline. And, growing in generosity deepens our connection to Christ.
Proverbs 18:16 "A gift opens the way and ushers the giver into the presence of the great."
When we give, it is all about the community in which God created us to be active participants. As a community we lift each other up, and God knows we need each other. Giving, reminds us of God's great generosity and love for one and other.
Our financial contributions make a difference in the lives of so many people. As individuals that make up the CGS family, we seek spiritual growth and fulfillment, but also to make a difference in the world around us.
My own giving story happened in August, when Chapel of The Flowers contacted me to help settle the burial fees for a friend lost to cancer. I’d not been in much contact for the last few years, so it was a shock to me about her passing. The last time we had contact was a couple years prior when she needed financial assistance with her son’s funeral.
As sad as this situation was, and unplanned expenses for myself, I was glad and blessed in many ways to help. It was the right thing to do, and a freeing experience for me. I know both Judy and her son Lenny are now in a better place.
Giving can be a sacrifice for many in the congregation living on tight budgets, it takes us out of our comfort zone, it’s not easy, financially or giving of ourselves in other ways. Your time and energy can be a wonderful and rewarding way of tithing, supporting any of the CGS ministries. So maybe skip that latte, or movie night and put that bit of money or time into serving God.
We are all included in God's abundance. We are co-creators and stewards of that abundance. We are transforming lives, so let's share the good news of Jesus through our giving and proclaiming the abundance of God.
I pledge an extra $100.00 towards our 2020 budget goals and invite you to do the same if you are able.
 

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