10.15.23 (Both) New Sermon Series: The Gift of Giving: “God’s Model for Giving”
John 3:16-19, I John 3:16-19
Dear Trinity Family & Friends:
I hope this message finds you well. As your new senior pastor, I am deeply humbled and blessed to be a part of this vibrant congregation. I am filled with anticipation as I envision us continuing to invite all to gather in love, grow in faith, and give back in joyful service.
In light of this, I am excited to share with you that beginning Sunday, October 15th in both our 9:00 a.m. Traditional Service and 11:00 a.m. Cross Connect Service, I will be preaching a stewardship sermon series, entitled “The Gift of Giving” based on Acts 20:35 (CEB): “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” A scripture that speaks deeply about the nature of God’s love and how we, as God’s children, are called to embody it. Simply put, every act of generosity we display is in response to God’s love in our lives.
Here is a brief look at what each Sunday holds for us, as we prepare to learn more about the Biblical principles of giving and stewardship:
October 15: “God's Model for Giving”
We will explore the profound depth of God’s love and the unmatched gift he has given to each of us. The world saw the ultimate act of giving when God sacrificed his only Son, Jesus Christ, for our salvation.
October 22: “The World’s Model of Giving”
In a world where materialism can easily cloud our judgment, it is vital we understand where true riches are found. God’s perspective on giving, rooted in selflessness and love, offers a fulfillment that far surpasses the world's fleeting views on generosity.
October 29: “The Discipline of Giving”
We will examine what the Bible teaches on tithing, giving 10% of one’s income back to God, a discipline that enables us to demonstrate how much we love God and how we trust him to provide for our every need.
November 5: “Giving as Worship” (All Saints Sunday & Holy Communion)
Using the story of the widow’s mite, we will explore how genuine giving is a form of worship, reflecting our trust and reverence for God. We will also remember the saints who have come before us and how many of them dedicated their time, talents, and resources to support the work of ministry.
November 12: “The Impact of Our Giving” – Commitment Sunday (2024 Estimate of Giving Commitment Cards)
We will reflect on the ripple effects of our generosity. The scripture reminds us that our giving has the power to bless others in more ways than we can imagine. At the conclusion of both services, we will be invited to prayerfully commit ourselves to be generous toward God and others through the ministries of Trinity United Methodist Church by submitting a 2024 Estimate of Giving Commitment Card. This card also gives an opportunity for us to pledge toward our Building Restoration Project to secure, strengthen, and expand Trinity’s Home for current and future generations. You can find additional information on our website at www.trinityhsv.org/donate.
My hope and prayer is that this sermon series will inspire each and every one of us to grow in our generosity. Not out of obligation, but out of gratitude. As we focus on “The Gift of Giving,” let us remember that every act of generosity, no matter how small, reflects God’s love and grace to those around us.
Grateful to be one of your pastors,
Pastor Dedric
Don’t forget you can keep up with all of our worship services and sermons live or on demand at
www.trinityhsv.org/services.