Sacrifice or Investment?
From the October 2017 Millbrook UMC, Raleigh NC Newsletter
by Rev. Mike Frese
I think most people want to make a difference, even in a small way. They want their lives to count for something. But it can never happen until they care about something bigger than themselves. Something that really matters. As I write this today, I have just returned from being the Spiritual Director at a Walk to Emmaus event. Last Thursday afternoon, as I was hurrying out of the office after a frenzied morning making sure everything I typically do in a week was done by Thursday and as I was driving to the camp where the Emmaus Walk takes place, I began wondering if it was worth it. Was it worth it to add the extra time to prepare a long presentation, go through training and then give up a weekend for the actual retreat? Was it worth it to spend the money to participate in the walk, even though I was a leader? Was it worth the hassle of taking on one more leadership position and all the logistics that go with the job? As I arrived, the sacrifice of my time, talent and treasure weighed heavily on my mind. Then the weekend happened. I saw strangers become friends. I experienced closed hearts opening up to share deep hurts and hopes. A number of participants experienced substantial breakthroughs in their spiritual lives and faithful living. Afterwards, as I drove home I realized that what I had earlier named a “sacrifice” wasn’t really a sacrifice, it was an investment – an investment in God’s redeeming work. I know that this Emmaus Walk weekend will not make the history books. Yet, I cannot deny that something significant happened. God’s presence and power was made manifest. The work of the Holy Spirit changed lives. Many of the participants were transformed over the weekend. I didn’t do it all, but I did my part. Others also shared their gifts. For some, the sacrifice was greater than others, but God took the investment of all and used it for significant spiritual growth. This simple experience is a microcosm of our stewardship in the church. We all give what we can. Some give more, some give less, depending on the resource base of each person. God takes the gifts of our time, talent and treasure, empowers them through the Holy Spirt and does significant work for God’s kingdom. The more we give, the more God has to work with. How are you willing to invest your time, talent and treasure?
Face to Face
What is Face to Face?
An adaptation of The Walk to Emmaus, Face to Face is specifically crafted to meet the needs and life-stages of older adults. The program seeks to invite men and women, ages 60 and older, to experience Jesus through an 8-session journey over anywhere from 2 to 8 weeks – depending on the setting - covering subjects such as discipleship, mission, grief, and end-of-life issues. The highly flexible schedule allows participants the freedom to engage in structured Bible study and prayer in a church setting or other community space. Led by clergy and lay leaders, Face to Face strengthens and renews followers of Christ and bolsters the spiritual life of individuals, families, and congregations everywhere. Face to Face is open to members of any Christian denomination who want to strengthen their spiritual lives, discover answers to their questions about faith, and are open to understanding the responsibility of living a Christian lifestyle. Encounters in the Nashville and surrounding areas are currently being held twice a year at churches and retirement centers. Participation is open to all Christians 60 and above. Sponsors are helpful but not required for Face To Face. Pre-registration is required and participants must commit to attending all sessions.