It’s so easy to make things complicated, especially when we’re looking for excuses or reasons not to do something. Overcomplicating a task, is one of the classic tactics of skilled procrastinators. Given my giftedness for over-complication, there are times in my life when I feel like I’m a particularly talented procrastinator. Lately, I’ve revisited some tried & true advice that is encouraging me to make a change.
You’ve probably learned the axiom that if you make your bed in the morning, you can feel good about accomplishing something at the start of the day. And if you’re a list maker, you probably know that it helps to “cherry pick” a few of the easiest tasks from the list so that you can start crossing things off right away. Often, some early progress can breed better results over the long term. I think there’s some practical wisdom in this approach.
The writer of Ecclesiastes might agree…
“Whoever observes the wind will not sow, and whoever regards the clouds will not reap.”
Ecclesiastes 11:4
Start sowing and you’ll begin to reap the benefits. Keep focused on the task before you before the time just slips away and nothing gets done. Ancient wisdom is good advice for modern procrastinators like me. Now, if like me, you need some practice with an easy task…
Members of our church have hopefully received an information packet in the mail regarding our Annual Giving Campaign – the invitation to make a financial commitment in support of our shared ministries for the coming calendar year. This year, we’re keeping things simple. And we’ve set two goals that we need your help in meeting:
Goal #1
120 member households make a commitment to support our mission in 2023 by filling out and completing the enclosed commitment card or creating a recurring electronic gift.
Goal #2
8% increase to the total giving commitments we receive. Some will need to consider giving more to offset those unable to make an increase at this time.
That’s it – pretty simple. You can help us meet both goals right now by finding your Commitment Card, filling it out and bringing it with you to worship on Sunday or mailing it in to the office in the envelope provided. Or you can act right now, as you’re reading this, by clicking here to fill out your Commitment Card online.
Thank you for not procrastinating and responding in hope! – Pastor Peter
Let us pray…
God of generosity, you continue to fill the world with goodness. You also invite us to simply use what you have given so that all creation might thrive. Help us to employ the unique gifts you have instilled in each person for the sake of the whole world. When we want to complicate things, help us keep it simple. Give us the courage to act boldly, love our neighbors, and respond in faith. Amen.
2023 Annual Giving Campaign Prayer for Discernment