December 17, 2001
TOGETHER:
Gifts & lights reflect God's love
___In this beautiful season, Americans think more about giving than at any other time. Shoppers fill stores trying to find just the right gifts. And people decorate their homes with lights, giving passersby the gift of delight and wonder.
___We wonder about the money and time that goes into all this. But I have never found it in my heart to be critical of gift-giving and Christmas lights. I know it has been commercialized, but would you prefer dark houses and empty stores at this time of year?
CHARLES WADE
Executive Director
BGCT Executive Board
___Why gifts and lights? Could it be that at some deep level it really is about the Gift of God and the Light that filled the sky? I believe it is, and I believe it is one of the greatest times of the year to share the good news of God's love for us all.
___God bless our churches and our people as they share the glory of Jesus' birth. Be particularly sensitive to the needs of others in your communities. Watch for houses that are dark. Maybe you can be a friend bringing hope. Watch for opportunities to share God's love by giving to those who have little. Many of our churches have "gift stores" for families who are having a hard time. There they can find gifts for their children. Be sure to take time to tell the story of Jesus to those who come by. You will find that there really are children and families who do not know who Jesus is.
___Many are planning year-end giving. It is no secret that the value of many stock portfolios is down. But I can remember when few Baptists had any stocks at all! In spite of everything we have been through this year, still most of us have more than we ever thought we would have. I urge you to be as generous as possible with your church and its ministries. The Giver of every good gift will bless every good gift you give.
___Also, consider your estate, whatever its size. You will be a better steward of God's blessing on your life if you take the time to pray and plan what you want done with your resources after you die. Good estate planning will save money for those you love and can strengthen ministries and institutions that make an eternal difference in the lives of others.
___The Texas Baptist Missions Foundation makes available to every church a bulletin insert, in English and Spanish, to educate members on the importance of making or updating their wills so they are able to properly provide for their family's future and also include their church, Baptist institutions, and other mission causes as beneficiaries. To order these helpful materials, contact the foundation at www.bgct.org/tbmf/order.htm or call (800) 558-8263.
___In the United States, seven out of 10 people die without a will. Of those who have a will, seven out of 10 need to update it. Financial advisers recommend re-evaluating your will at least every five years. Tax laws change, family needs change, ministries change. You want to be faithful to God and to your family in the way you spend money every week.
___You want to be faithful to God and to your family in the way you plan the use of your estate. It is good stewardship to do so.
___We are loved.
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