THE FAVOR OF PARTICIPATION

           The apostle Paul's words of commendation to newly-planted churches in a Roman province just north of Greece remain truly eloquent (cf. 2Cor.8:1-5).  He tells how the Macedonian disciples dug deep in the midst of their own trials to provide support.  Specifically, Paul notes:  they were begging us with much entreaty for the favor of participation in the support of the saints... (2Cor.8:4).  The New Century Version renders this verse:  They begged and pleaded with us to let them share in this service for God's people.  

            As I mentioned in a recent sermon, our congregation's giving throughout the last 100 days has proven to be quite remarkable.  When the pandemic first began we were concerned that if we had to shutter our doors for more than a few weeks it might place us in financial straits.  O me of little faith!  What has happened over these last three months plus is truly noteworthy:  our giving remained strong and steady from week to week - - with households spontaneously mailing in their offerings to our church treasurer.  There was no strong-arming, no calls made by our elders or deacons urging us to keep on giving in spite of “the interruption”.   Our church family responded with gracious grace.  A steady flow of checks sent by mail has made sure that we remain solvent in meeting obligations and paying our bills.  In spite of all the negatives that have occurred in the first half of this year, our weekly offerings average ($1,659) is less than $20 per week below last year's at the same point in time. 

          On a personal level we are genuinely grateful for your ongoing support.  At this stage of my preaching career I was on edge about disrupting my savings plan for retirement.  Adding to my anxiety was the realization that at the end of last year I had requested of our elders that my pay for 2020 be reduced by $5,000.  Even more concerns surfaced when our 401K posted significant loses due to the shut down related to the pandemic.  I am very happy to note that I have not missed a payday, thanks to your superb faithfulness and generosity. 

          With God being our Helper we shall weather these storms.  It is comforting to know that we as a church family have taken ownership of our giving.  Not being a large congregation means that we rely upon all of us to do our share.  Let us not begrudge our offerings, but LET US CONTINUE TO GIVE CHEERFULLY - - even in these difficult days.  And last but not least, let us be reassured that God is able to make all grace abound to (us), that always having all sufficiency in everything, (we) may abound for every good deed (2Cor.9:7-8).

                                                                                  Terry Siverd / Cortland Church of Christ