A couple of years ago at our Lenten program I shared with you the story about how we nearly lost our company and how richly our prayers were answered at that time.  The survival of the company was solely a gift from God.  I have no doubt. Yes, we worked hard but we listened as God provided answers, situations and human resources to retool our business into a vibrant, profitable place providing income for 40 families.

During this transition period, John Flood was heading up the stewardship campaign here at St. Luke's and was keen on putting a new, more effective campaign together based on Joyful giving in response to God's gifts to all of us, which centered on tithing.  He offered a chance to prayerfully and purposefully consider making a commitment toward a goal of tithing.  By signing John's pledge poster, you agreed only to work toward tithing at your own pace.                     

For us to see that God was 100% responsible for all the joys of our lives was very evident at that time so we were ready to sign the pledge.  Yes, it did take a few years to move into a full tithe, but at last we finally made it.  It feels great, just like the mortgage has been paid off or the last car payment made.

From: 2 Corinthians 9: 6-8

"The point is this: the one who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and the one who sows bountifully will reap bountifully.  Each of us must give as we have made up our minds, not reluctantly, or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.  And God is able to provide us with every blessing in abundance, that by always having enough of everything, we may share abundantly in every good work."

I challenge you to take stock of the blessings you have received and prayerfully consider a joyful path to tithing.  You won't regret it.

-          Chip Ulrich