FAITH FOR THE FUTURE - legacies

Occasionally we still sing: Take my silver and my gold - not a mite would I withhold - words written around 140 years ago.  What do they make you think about, if anything?  Perhaps, "Not me, I haven't got any," or maybe, "I feel I'm pretty generous when I can be."

Jesus frequently mentioned money, as did Paul.  Most of us have some ‘silver and gold' and would like more: it does help us live more comfortably or have a more interesting life - or even to feel good by giving some away if we think we have enough.  Yes, we know the ‘widow's mite' story (Mark12: 41-44) but ... how little could any of us reasonably live on?

If we seek to be Christ's disciples we do have responsibility to keep His show on the road, to identify with building His Kingdom here and now.  Many Christians give unsparingly of their time and skills; many are very generous with their money - to St Michael's and other organisations and charities, Christian or not.  Praise God for such blessing.

Jesus gave up his life in his 30s bequeathing us the legacy of eternal life.  When you die, what legacy blessing will you bestow on those left behind, your family and friends?  One day most of us will say goodbye with at least something in the bank or in property - where will it go?  Research amongst Christians shows that at least 38 out of 100 have NOT made a WILL, and more than half of the rest haven't considered leaving anything to their church community.

Whether you are 20 or 70, and however much ‘wealth' you have IT IS GOOD STEWARDSHIP to make a will.  Do not put this off!  It need not be complicated or expensive, and you can always alter things if your circumstances change. A will makes your wishes clear and protects those left behind; it may include your final act of giving to St Michael's - it was through a legacy that the Belfrey Hall was finally paid for, and there are several ‘benefice boards' from times past still on our church walls.

Maybe you have already left something for the church in your will - if so, very many thanks!  Should you have any questions there are helpful booklets available.  In addition, several church members have said they are happy to offer advice in confidence.  Contact Paul Millard at the Parish Centre or John Mills, and someone will get in touch with you.  Go on - do it now!

John Mills, Finance and Stewardship Group