{\rtf1\ansi\deff0{\fonttbl{\f0\fswiss\fcharset0 Helvetica;}{\f1\fswiss Helvetica;}} {\colortbl ;\red0\green0\blue0;} {\*\generator Msftedit 5.41.15.1507;}\viewkind4\uc1\pard\qc\cf1\lang1033\f0\fs24 Time & Talents\f1 \f0 Stewardship\f1 Message\line \par \pard\par \tab\f0 Jesus provided wine at the wedding of Cana, and He calmed the storm that frightened His fisherman disciples on the Sea of Galilee. Jesus healed the centurion's servant, and He healed the invalid at the pool of Bethesda who could never get into the pool fa\f1 st enough to experience its healing powers.\par \par \tab\f0 Jesus fed more than 4,000 people and more than 5,000 people because He had compassion on them, and He taught in the synagogue. He washed His disciples' feet in order to show them how to serve.\f1\par \par \tab The acts of Jesus suggest ways in which we might serve. When we meet the physical or emotional needs of others; when we befriend; when we witness; when we provide, cook or serve food; when we serve in His church; when we worship; when we lead; when we teach and learn; we mirror His acts of service.\par \par \tab Jesus acts on earth were signs of His power, His authority, His love, His compassion. Our acts are signs that we are connected to Him.\par \par \tab\f0 In Matthew chapter 20 these words of Jesus are recorded: 'You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be your slave - just as the Son of Man did not come to be saved, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many'.\f1\par \par \tab\f0 In Matthew 25 Jesus says, 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.'\f1\par \par \tab\f0 Do we need any more motivation than this? After the offering we will all receive a list of activities. There is a special children's section on it. Think about your gifts. Be liberal in your use of them for the Lord's work. Think especially of three \f1 great needs here at St. John for next year: evangelism, service as a trustee, and help with youth ministry. We will return our signed pledge forms at the door as we leave the sanctuary.\par \par \tab Thank you for what you are doing and for what you will do.\par }