Dear ICMA Member:
Believe it or not, there is more to the ICMA than just ordaining ministers! This organization is becoming a powerhouse in ministry. Our intercessory prayer teams IPT work around the clock to cover the needs of many, we have built wells for water in Liberia, aided pastors in developing nations with food and shelter, provided hi-definition cameras for a US based church seeking to expand their presence, we are in the process of building a university in North Carolina that will offer affordable Christian education and this was done through the efforts of our gracious Father and 4 full-time leaders who run the ICMA.
These things are planned and prepared by leadership and staff who are deeply committed to our becoming who it is God is calling us to be. The ministry and mission of the ICMA take place because of the spiritual and financial gifts our members and friends choose to offer. These are the resources that fuel our mission; and yes, it does cost real money to provide these spiritual things!
The decision to give a gift is a choice, but as a follower of Jesus, it really isn’t an option! Based on what we have received, we are encouraged to give something – out of thanksgiving for what God has done, and as a sign of faithfulness and commitment to be a part of the good things that God is continuing to do in our world. We have the gift of Jesus and we are invited to respond to what God has given us with generosity of our own.
To make that gift means making a decision to give something away that you might use for something else. To do that may require choosing to not buy a fancy coffee, or deciding to carry a sack lunch into the office once a week instead of buying lunch. The amount may seem insignificant, but did you know that gift of just $10 every week can help an orphanage keep the doors open every month, pay the power bill for an aging minister who can’t meet his bills, pay for inexpensive antibiotic treatment for a father in Pakistan who cannot afford medication or provide roofing materials for a school in Uganda. Your gift matters – it matters to you as the giver, and to the ICMA which utilizes it as a resource for mission.
As an organization, we are entering a time of discerning what we will contribute monetarily in the coming year. The practice of exercising financial stewardship is a spiritual discipline and a way to grow our faith. There is joy to be found in practicing generosity and it begins with a simple step of a commitment to contribute.
My prayer is that you will join us on a “Journey to Generosity”. The gifts you give make good things happen. Thank you for being a part of it. Challenge yourself to give in a regular and disciplined way. I promise you won’t regret it.
“How do I give?” you might be asking. Go to www.paypal.me/icma
Blessings,
Pastor Jeff Godsey
President/ICMA
