Inspirational Giving

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Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

In 1 Chronicles 29, the prophet Ezra writes about the method King David uses to raise the funds for the building of the Temple in Jerusalem. Ezra writes that David revealed in detail what he was willing to give to the building of the Temple. It was an extravagant offering. By making his commitment public David inspired the leadership and then the people to a level of generosity never before seen in Israel. 

This passage has often haunted me. Does God want me, as the pastoral leader of this congregation, to share in detail my financial commitment to the work of Stonebridge United Methodist Church? Only on a few occasions have I shared the details of my giving. Typically, these few transparent times have been driven by that church’s financial need. This year, God is challenging Amy and me to take a huge step in faith in our giving, to step forward as leaders in the work of Stonebridge UMC. 

For 2024, we have prayerfully decided to commit to Stonebridge a double tithe of 20% of our before taxes income. This puts our giving at $30,000 for 2024. We do this for two reasons. First, because we believe in the work of Stonebridge Church and the tremendous potential for the future. Second, because we believe this is what God is calling us to do. 

I share this with you to hopefully inspire those who can, to increase their giving for 2024 and to encourage everyone, no matter your giving level, to fill out an Estimate of Giving card for 2024. In no way am I trying to apply pressure or guilt on anyone. God has put this on my heart to share, and I pray that you will receive this in the spirit in which it is offered. 

Sunday at Stonebridge UMC

This Sunday, we continue the sermon series, “Here I Am, Lord”. We will look at Matthew 9:35-39. As I read and study this passage, I hear Matthew sharing with us the method, the motivation and means of Jesus ministry (the three M’s of Jesus ministry). The sermon will ask: HOW do I make a difference for Christ? How do I use the means and talents God has given me for the building of God’s Kingdom in Christ? These words of Jesus from Matthew are some of the most important words we hear from Jesus in the Gospels. 

What's Happening at Stonebridge UMC

  • Estimate of giving: To fill out a Estimate of Giving card, click here. 

  • Christmas Poinsettias: To purchase a poinsettia in memory or honor of someone, click here.

  • Family Movie night: November 18 in the Robertson Activity Center

  • Pre-Thanksgiving service: November 19 one service in Celebration Hall at 9:45 a.m.

And God is able to provide you with every blessing in abundance, so that by always having enough of everything you may share abundantly in every good work. (2 Corinthians 8:8)

SEE YOU IN WORSHIP ON SUNDAY. 

Pastor John Allen