To be a follower of Jesus Christ is also to be a giver. A giver of ourselves to God and to other people. A giver of the many talents with which God has blessed us. A giver of our money as we share it for the betterment of the world and our community. A giver of our time as we declare to God that being part of God's church is a priority in our lives. To give is to know joy and fulfillment. To give is to get outside of ourselves and be free to see a much bigger life. Giving is actually a wonderful opportunity for us!

Even more important, though, is the fact that giving is really the essence of who God is. God gives freely and generously. Look at the gift of Jesus in order to save the world! How could we know a greater sacrifice and gift? So, if God is so much the giver, who are we not to be?  Giving is meant to be at the core of who we are as Christians.

We encourage all people at First Lutheran to think deeply about a life of giving. Our church, as all churches, function because of the willing and generous gifts of those who participate here.  We urge you to give yourselves through regular financial offerings and tithes (“tithe” is the Biblical precedent of giving 10% of our income for the sake of the church and God's work in the world through it), through time participating in this ministry and through the talents and skills God has given you.