December, 2004 Calendar In This Issue: Core Values: Walking in Integrity Everyone's Responsibility Unchurched St. Nicholas and the Pawn Shop Balls of Gold New Years Prayer Religion, Politics and Theology Angel Songs & the Star of Wonder: Christ is Born Today Susan Tree St. Nicholas to Visit St. A's on his World Tour!

Reprinted from: Parish Publishing

A man decided to get rid of a dog he owned. When he drove to the city he stopped near the outskirts, put his pet out, and drove away. He spent the rest of the afternoon and evening in the city.

Late that night, through the chill of the falling snow, he headed home. As he neared the edge of the city, he saw his dog sitting just where he had left him. As the car approached, the dog lifted his ears, stood up, and wagged his tail. The man drove on past.

At home he confessed to his wife that his conscience was hurting him; yet he did nothing about it.

This true story is a realistic illustration of spiritual errors made by God's children when they hope that someone else will assume their responsibility. The man hoped that someone else would take the dog and look after it. Christians often think, "Oh, someone else will do it."

Christian stewardship is a message and a mission that is learned by a lifetime of practice. Children, as well as adults, need to learn the lesson of sharing with God some of the good things God provides for them. The work of Christ is not something that someone else funds. It is an effort we all need to support. It is everyone's responsibility.

Pledge cards and confidential response envelopes will be available in the bulletins on Nov. 14th and Nov. 22nd and in the entranceway of the church until the end of the year. New pledges will be dedicated Sunday, Dec. 12th.

Copyright © 2004 St. Augustine by-the-Sea