In Luke, Chapter 12, Verse 21, Jesus warns us of the dangers of “storing up treasures for ourselves.” It seems that the verse in Luke is telling us that our earthly treasure offers us a range of choices. We have the choice of increasing what we have or giving back to God what is already His. It is easy in today’s world to think about providing for our own needs and those of our parents and children, but Jesus seems to be saying that there is a risk that there will be a time when our life is set before God and our earthly treasure will be meaningless. Luke also has Jesus saying that we should be “rich toward God.” That is, we can choose a style of life based on the choice of giving our treasure to enlarge God’s presence or play it safe by increasing our own treasure. Luke later elaborates on this theme and has Jesus telling us that our hearts are where our treasure is. Our decision concerning giving will take our hearts and minds closer to or further away from God.

December is generally a time of happiness and is associated with a tradition of giving. We have the opportunity to consider the choices that Jesus wants us to make. Giving to the Chapel of the Cross during this year’s Every Member Canvass will permit us to continue the programs that further God’s presence in us, this congregation, and in the community. In discussions held at the September 22 stewardship dinner, there was significant enthusiasm about the diversity of programs, the music, the liturgy, and the role that our parish has played in social outreach over the years. People were also excited about the new Director of Christian Education and the formation of a new mission. These examples are manifestations of God’s presence in us and in our congregation. Pledging to the church at this time provides an opportunity to be “rich toward God” and further His kingdom here and now. Over the last few months, many parishioners have already made a choice about their treasure.

As of November 21, 407 parishioners have pledged $705,584. We do, however, have a considerable distance to travel if we are to match our minimum goal of trying to maintain support for the programs that we currently have, i.e., a 10.8% increase over last year’s pledges ($927,213). For those who have not returned their pledges this year, please consider doing so in the next few days. If you have not received a pledge packet, you may pick one up from the dining room or the back of the church or chapel. You may also call the parish office to have one mailed to you.

If you don’t like paperwork, pledging can be done online. If you have questions about the process or the budget for next year, please call Hugh Tilson, Terry Johnston or any member of the vestry or clergy.