Generosity

by Tim Van Rooy
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As we move into the seasons of Thanksgiving and Christmas, we are reminded of the Bible’s teachings. Whether rich or poor, we are challenged to a different value system than our culture may exhibit. Romans 12:13 reminds us to “Contribute to the needs of the saints and seek to show hospitality.”

Giving can make such an impact. I will always remember the time as a young child growing up in Wisconsin and going months without my father’s paycheck when his company voted to go on strike. Times were tough for our family. If I wanted to go play down in our basement, I needed to bring down the light bulb from my bedroom because we didn’t have enough light bulbs for every room. That was when we experienced the spirit of God’s generosity through our friends at church.  Several families pooled their resources and brought us bags and bags of groceries (including light bulbs). I remember my mom saying with tears in her eyes how and she and my father were trying to decide between paying the mortgage or feeding the family. Because of the generosity of our church friends, Mom and Dad never had to make that decision. When you experience God’s love and generosity through his church body, it changes your life. At least it did mine! Our family went from literally being in a dark place, to seeing the light of hope.

Christ the King has been that kind of community for so many. I’ve heard numerous stories from members who have experienced gifts when in need.   Whether it was someone offering to help take care of children for a fellow member in a time of family crisis, or providing Christmas presents to the children of a single parent at a time of need, CtK has shown that spirit of generosity. And today, CtK continues to be a wonderful example of giving and hospitality within our local congregation, community and in global mission.  
 
At this time of year, we have so many opportunities to embrace that generosity spirit by sharing and giving of all that God has blessed us with. Whether it is sharing groceries with a family in need, supporting our local food shelf, or making a pledge to support our congregational ministry, we can live out the generosity teachings of Christ. 
 
In honor of your generosity and that of your fellow congregational donors, the CtK Generosity Committee and CtK Foundation wish to thank you for your support by inviting you to attend a free concert on Sunday, November 13th at 3:30pm in our sanctuary featuring renowned signer and performer, Jennifer Grimm. 
 
Attendees are encouraged to bring Thanksgiving themed food items such as stuffing, cranberry sauce, mashed potatoes, gravy, canned yams, canned corn, boxed Jello, canned fruit, cornbread mix, pumpkin pie filling, evaporated milk, all to be donated to Ralph Reeder Food Shelf. If you prefer to donate a monetary gift to Ralph Reeder, you can do so with cash or check or give online at https://www.givemn.org/story/3Z2i4g
 
Feel free to pass on this gift of music by inviting friends or family members to attend as well. We look forward to celebrating all you do to help support the ministries of CtK.