Trusting
Last week I reflected upon the effect that the Covid pandemic has had on the church. The challenges experienced changed how we are the church and how we will do church in the future. As a lay person, I can see that my role in the church is changing. Whether or not the church I am attending is thriving, or needs to merge with another, I need to be more fully engaged. Even if my church should close, I am still a member of Body of Christ.
In Romans 8, Paul reminds us: “For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, 39 neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” In this period of church history, I would like to add – neither church growth nor church closing shall separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus.
It comes down to trusting in the promises of Christ and of our faith. I choose to trust that God is working among us, and in us, during this time of change. We are like Peter being called to walk on the water and to keep our eyes on Jesus. Even when we focus on the storm and rough seas, Christ reaches out his hand pulling us into his love.
Choosing to make a legacy gift through your will or other gift arrangement to support future ministries is a demonstration of trusting in the promises of our faith. I live only in this present moment, but I need to trust that God holds my future, and the future of the world. Choosing to leave a bequest is an investment in the future that God is continually shaping.
The Foundation can play an important role when you are updating your will or gift plans. I consult with many people who are considering a bequest that will insure the future mission and ministry of the church. Together, we can explore ways to structure your bequest to make the greatest future impact. Contact Gary Melville at 800-595-4347 X103 or gmelville@umfne.org to arrange a convenient time to discover how you can maximize your giving.