Today we received a certificate thanking us for paying 100% of our apportionments in 2008. (We’re on track for 100% payment in 2009.) The scripture at the top left is one of my favorites on the subject of money and giving:
Their abundant joy and their extreme poverty have overflowed in a wealth of generosity on their part. For, as I can testify, they voluntarily gave according to their means, and even beyond their means, begging earnestly for the privilege of sharing in this ministry to the saints.
—2 Corinthians 8.2b-4, NRSV
I wish that all Christians might “beg earnestly” for the privilege of sharing in the ministry of the church.