Generosi-TEA

"Giving" is often skipped over in sermons as pastors don't want to "upset" the congregants.

But God....in his word has lots to say about giving.

Last Sunday, I had the pleasure of re-living many of the familiar rituals of my childhood church. However, this time it wan't at the large First United Methodist in Hopkinsville Ky, but at a small church, Berlin Methodist in Lewisburg, TN. 

• The Apostles Creed. 
• Doxology. 
• Lord's Prayer in unison. 
• Responsive Reading. 
• Offering Plate passed.

Berlin UMC is a church where a few seek to serve many, even with their tithes and offerings, "sowing bountifully and giving cheerfully." (2 Corinthians 9:6-7)

I was impressed by their generosity, as most were widows or "senior" couples---you can do the math! "Doing good and sharing generously with others pleases the Lord." (Hebrews 13:16)

Plus, they sang my old time favorite, "Lord of the Dance," p.261 in the Methodist hymnal!

SABBATH SNAPSHOTS: Christmas at the farm....

12/23/12 ....Full Circle Ranch---always so welcoming. Everyone is invited in but Jesus comes first!

Berlin UMC members and ALL members of the household of faith and the  Old Berlin community always welcome! 

This year's fun decorations for upcoming holiday party are all about the "Light." 

Crooked Tree a story of redemption for children and dedicated to Inge Smith, Stefan's mom, who celebrated 6o years of teaching this year at Smith Pre-School in Franklin, TN . 

“We dedicate our book to Inge Smith, who has devoted 60 yeas toward educating young children of Franklin,” Wood wrote in the dedication. “She leaves and indelible mark on all young ones she teaches and has made many crooked trees stand straight and tall.”