May 5, 2019
Emphasizing wills makes the instrument of legacy-building the focus instead of a much better and larger question: How do we want to contribute to the world beyond our lifetimes?
That idea is from Karl Mattison, vice president of planned giving resources at the Presbyterian Foundation. May 5 is Wills Emphasis Sunday in the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), and while it sounds like something we all need to consider, it’s not very exciting, and it’s hard to engage people by that title alone, Mattison says.
Instead, ask your congregation to consider how God may be calling them to contribute to the world beyond their lifetime. Mattison points out that at any time, 95% of our stuff is being used by us. Our home, our retirement accounts and other assets are all in use or are being saved for future use. But one day, we’re going to be finished with those things. “It’s the biggest gift most of us will ever make,” Mattison said. “With good planning, you can make a game-changing gift that can have a huge impact on the causes you love.”
The Presbyterian Foundation is able to assist congregations and church members who are ready to think about how to share all that God has given to us. Your Ministry Relations Officer can help. You can find yours at presbyterianfoundation.org/mro.
Robyn Davis Sekula, Vice President of Communications and Marketing at the Presbyterian Foundation, Ruling Elder in the PC(USA), and Member of Highland Presbyterian Church in Louisville
Today’s Focus: Wills Emphasis Sunday
Let us join in prayer for:
PC(USA) Agencies’ Staff
Jeanie Schmuckie, FDN
Eileen Schuhmann, PMA
Let us pray:
Oh Lord, every blessing that we have is from you. Teach us to be cheerful givers and to give from a full heart that serves and uses your gifts in ways that will bless others. Help us to plan boldly and confidently for the future of your Church. Amen.