A Layaway Offering for Christ
By Melvin Amerson

The Christmas shopping season seems to begin earlier and earlier every year. Yet the season of Advent still begins on the fourth Sunday before Christmas. Perhaps the Wise Men in the gospel of Matthew 2:1-12, who brought Jesus gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh to recognize and celebrate his birth, started saving and sacrificing early in order to present extraordinary gifts to our Savior.

Consumerism at times appears to overshadow the focus of the season of Advent. For many believers, Christmas has become little more than a season of exchanging gifts with co-workers, loved ones, and family. Let us not forget about the exciting Christmas parties we attend. Sadly, there is a trend among believers who celebrate the season, attend parties, exchange gifts, take time off to relax with family and friends, yet fail to present the season honoree with a special gift fit for a king. The honoree that I am referring to is Jesus Christ, our risen Savior.

Given the current economic downturn, many will say that they are unable to exchange gifts at the level of previous years. Retail stores -- in response to the economy -- have brought back layaway plans. For those not old enough to remember layaways, it was a purchase option without taking physical possession of the merchandise, that required weekly or biweekly payments until paid in full. This was the way many families and individuals bought things before the innovation of credit cards. Layaway helped us make the distinction between a need and a want. Further, it taught lifelong lessons in patience, diligence and self-control.

Consider establishing a churchwide layaway plan for a special ministry gift that will honor Christ. Weekly, beginning the first Sunday in November or the first Sunday in Advent, place an additional $10, $15, $20 or more each Sunday in a designated offering envelope as your layaway offering. The resources raised should be used to bless others, expand, or enhance ministry. Your congregation's weekly offering/installment will help members take their focus off the commercialism of Christmas and place the focus back on the birth of Christ.

Remember to start saving early -- as the wise men probably did, so your offerings are reflective of an awesome gift that gives honor to the Prince of Peace, who brought joy to the world.

Melvin Amerson is on the staff of the Texas Methodist Foundation and author of Celebrating the Offering (Discipleship Resources).

Copyright 2009 Melvin Amerson.

Posted 10-15-09