What does it mean to give extravagantly? When we think about giving in the context of Christianity, we can’t help but begin with the way that God has given generously to us. In contrast to the scarcity mindset we so often find in the world, God’s grace is given to us in abundance. We cannot begin to count our blessings! In God’s economy there is always enough; in fact, more than enough, including leftovers to be shared (see Mark 6:30-44).
If we start from that place, then as we grow more and more into the image of Christ, we will also become extravagant in the way we give to others: of our time, talents, and treasure. We will begin to see what we have as not really ours, but on loan to us temporarily from God.
According to United Methodist Bishop Robert Schnase, “The practice of generosity describes the Christian’s unselfish willingness to give in order to make a positive difference for the purposes of Christ.” When you choose to give to the work of God through the ministry of Wooster United Methodist Church (or another congregation, for that matter), you are making a significant impact in the lives of people, locally and beyond.
Each week in our worship service, we take time to see and ponder the impact of our giving, remembering that our generosity is always a response to the initiative that God has taken to bless us first. As you continue to explore this page, you’ll discover that we offer several options for giving, keeping in mind that people give in a variety of ways – cash, check, online, etc. If you want to make an online gift, please click the “Give Online” button below and follow the prompts. Truly, we are blessed to be a blessing! Thank you for your extravagant generosity!
In Christ Jesus,
Pastor David Rittgers