Enough: Discovering Joy Through Simplicity and Generosity
Congregational Book Read and Class
One of Jesus’ great teaching parables involves a sower who cast seed along the ground. The sower hoped the seeds would sprout, grow, and bear good fruit. Some seeds did just that, producing a great harvest. But others, Jesus said, fell among thorns and, though they began to grow, these good plants were quickly choked out. Jesus said the thorns were “the cares of the world and the lure of wealth” (Matthew 13:22).
In a culture where having “enough” seems to have become a never-ending pursuit, Jesus’ parable remains incredibly relevant. Many of us are chasing the American dream in ways that lead to stress, anxiety, and fear—thorns that can rob us of the ability to enjoy the abundant lives of purpose that God intended for us.
All of us have struggled with these issues at one time or another. They are important issues that we cannot ignore. This is why, beginning April 11th for five weeks, we will offer an OSLC-wide adult education study called Enough: Discovering Joy Through Simplicity and Generosity. During this time we will explore what the Bible teaches us about financial management through small group study. We’ll hear stories about what others have learned by working through financial challenges. Each week we will provide you with some practical tools you can use to assess your financial situation and develop a financial plan with a biblical foundation.
I hope you will join us in the coming weeks as we look at how we can manage our financial resources and truly experience simplicity, generosity, and joy. This class is made possible from a grant from OSLC’s Endowment Fund.
Even if you cannot join the class, we invite each household to have a book. Pick them up from the church office while supplies last.
For more information, email Tom Bartkiewicz using the church directory or contact the church office by emailing office@oslc-warrenton.org or calling (540) 347-3224.
All Classes at 8:00 am on the following Sundays:
- April 11 “When Dreams Become Nightmares”
- April 18 “Wisdom and Finance”
- April 25 “Cultivating Contentment”
- May 2 “Defined by Generosity”
- May 9* “Living the Good Life”
* Stick around for our Mother’s Day Breakfast, which is taking place outside from 9:15-10:00 am.
To join the discussion, you can either come to the church to participate in person or you can Zoom with us by sitting at your computer or smartphone with the microphone and camera on, and following this link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81696137115?pwd=d0RiOEtXSVpHMmpvUmwxVDNsSytYdz09
If you can’t connect by computer, it is also possible to dial in by phone (audio only). Call +1 (301) 715-8592 (USA) and enter Meeting ID: 816 9613 8592 AND Passcode: 702228.