No place I would rather be.
What a weekend. Friday night 800 middle-schoolers filled the CLC for "Friday Night Lites" and even more impressive were the 50 volunteers that made it possible. Then Saturday, while the choir was rehearsing in the choir room, a bunch of our children and their families spent the day serving meals at Cass Community Services. Thanks to Kelly Willian and her team for helping our children learn the joy of service. Saturday night the "Composer Fest" concert was incredible, only to be matched by the choir's contribution to the All Saints Sunday service. Wow. The stunned silence of the congregation after their anthems spoke louder than any applause. And in between, a fellowship hall was abuzz with the energy of God's people and opportunities for service--Boy Scouts, kids basketball, fair-trade coffee, and more.
So after such a wonderful weekend, it's beyond me to figure out why anyone connected with this church would not want to support it financially. Who wouldn't want to invest in a church that is investing in children and youth? Who wouldn't want to support a music program of excellence that involves hundreds of volunteers in worship and praise? Who wouldn't want to share in the work of a church that is literally blessing the world through mission and service? And yet, so far this year we have seen a drop in the number of pledges received and the possibility of a shortfall which could seriously hamper our work in every area of ministry in 2012. I don't mean to scold or complain, I am just scratching my head to figure out why parents who want a strong program for their kids don't support it. Like, who will? I don't understand why folks who love the music and worship don't want to be part of it with their pledges. I'm befuddled to know why folks who have been blessed by the caring ministry, the fellowship and study, or the pastoral support of this church choose not to give. Of course, I am deeply grateful for those who already have. I celebrate the hundreds of families who have discovered the joy of sharing and those who have learned the blessing of tithing. They have their reward. Now it's time to hear from the rest. You can pledge on line (www.fumcbirmingham.org), by phone (248-646-1200, etc. 3133) or by pledge cards available in the office. Do it today.
For a couple years I have used the tagline "Where I'd rather be on Monday morning" with a photo of my grandchildren. Of course any day, I love to be with them, but on a weekend like this, all I can say is there is no place I would rather be right now and no cause I would rather support. I hope you feel the same.
Glad to be here, today.
Jack Harnish
|
