A MOMENT FOR MISSION
The blind receive their sight, the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the poor have good news brought to them. — Matthew 11:5, NRSV
As we await the coming Messiah during this season of Advent, we are reminded of the work that Jesus came to do. During Jesus' ministry on Earth, he healed the sick, the blind and the lepers. Jesus fed the hungry. He carried Good News to the poor.
So much of Jesus' ministry was with those living in a level of poverty that we would have a difficult time imagining. While the miracles sometimes attracted thousands, ministry to the poor was not popular with those in power. Jesus was in touch with those considered untouchable.
As United Methodists, we want to continue seeing this mission carried out. This important work is made possible by our apportioned giving to the World Service Fund.
The World Service Fund supports work done to further efforts in four focus areas: developing Christian leaders for the church and world, seeking new places of worship and renewing existing congregations, engaging in ministry with the poor, and stamping out those diseases of poverty that kill.
When we give generously, The United Methodist Church is able to reach out to people in poverty who are at risk of dying from preventable diseases and in need of the hope of the Good News across the globe.
OFFERTORY PRAYER
God, grant that we, your people, have generous hearts, willing to give and serve so your work continues. Grant that we have courage as your church to go and keep going to the lost, the poor and the sick to carry hope and the Good News. Amen.
From Discipleship Ministries: Third Sunday of Advent - Almighty God, thank you for the surprising ways that you bring salvation. You faithfully keep your covenant promises to Abraham and Sarah and their descendants. With Mary, we express deep gratitude for your help at unexpected turns in our lives. Give each of us a humble heart to serve you willingly and joyfully. Use these offerings to assist people who struggle with doubt or physical needs through the ministries of our church. We pray in your holy name. Amen. (Luke 1)
NEWSLETTER NUGGET
The United Methodist Church carries out ministry work across the globe. This work includes developing Christian leaders for the church and world, seeking new places of worship and renewing existing congregations, engaging in ministry with the poor, and stamping out those diseases of poverty that kill. This is the work that was carried out during Jesus' ministry here on Earth.
While poverty and disease continue to exist, this ministry still needs doing, and people to do it. With 45% of adults in our nation not connected to a community of faith, there is still work to be done to carry the message of Good News to places both near and far.
The United Methodist Church is able to carry out this work because of the World Service Fund. A portion of our apportionments goes toward this fund, which makes possible so much of the church's global ministry.