Seeds of Joy, Gifts of Grace

Dear Friends in Christ, 

Over the past three weeks, we have explored the book of Ruth together. Here, we met Naomi — a woman who knew deep heartbreak. She left Bethlehem full, but returned empty, grieving the loss of her husband and sons. Yet even in her sorrow, God was quietly at work. Through Ruth’s steadfast love and Boaz’s generosity, Naomi’s story turned from despair to joy, from emptiness to abundance. She held her grandson in her arms and proclaimed,

“Praise be to the Lord, who this day has not left you without a guardian-redeemer!” (Ruth 4:14).  

Naomi’s journey reminds us that God’s faithfulness often shines brightest in seasons of loss and despair. What feels empty can be filled again. What seems hopeless can be renewed. And often, God’s provision comes through the kindness and generosity of others.  

As we continue our stewardship journey and begin to orient ourselves towards 2026, I invite you to see your giving as part of this same redemptive arc. Your gifts become Ruth’s embrace, Boaz’s open hand, the very means by which God restores hope to those who feel forgotten. Together, we are writing stories of renewal in our community — stories where heartbreak is met with compassion and hope rises again.  

May we give not out of obligation, but out of gratitude for the God who never leaves us empty. And may our offerings be seeds of joy, bringing life where sorrow once dwelled.  

If you have not yet completed your estimate of giving card for 2026, I encourage you to do so before the end of the year. Cards may be submitted online through our church website, or by returning the card that was mailed to you. Extra cards are also available at the church for your convenience. Your commitment helps us plan faithfully for the ministry God is calling us to in the year ahead. 

Will you join me in prayer?

Gracious God,    

You are the One who turns sorrow into joy and emptiness into abundance.  As Naomi’s story reminds us, You never leave us without hope.  Bless the gifts we offer, that they may become instruments of Your renewal. Strengthen our faith, deepen our gratitude, and guide us to be Ruth’s embrace and Boaz’s open hand in our world today.  Through Christ our Redeemer we pray, Amen.  

With hope and thanksgiving,

Pastor Abi

Click the image above to listen to this classic harvest hymn that ties gratitude to God’s provision. If it doesn't load immediately, kindly click the "skip" button to advance to the hymn.