In The Gospel in Parable, John R. Donahue writes that Jesus “repeatedly used economic
and social relationships as windows into God’s Kingdom and human responsibility.”
Likewise, William Herzog notes in, Parables as Subversive Speech, that Jesus’ parables are
deeply embedded in the economic realities of Roman Palestine.

Why? Because money points to priorities. Priorities develop into systems. Systems
shape culture and community. Culture and community determine how we relate to
one another.

Or, to put it in the words of Jesus:
“For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” Matthew 6:21

And yet, most conversations in the church about money are difficult.

I think I know why: these conversations are difficult because we often begin at the wrong
end.

Let me offer the model again:
1. Money points to priorities.
2. Priorities develop into systems.
3. Systems shape culture and community.
4. Culture and community determine how we relate to one another.

Most churches begin with the first position: “We need more money.”

There are certainly moments when that starting place is appropriate. During crises,
seasons of opportunity, or moments when immediate action can create meaningful
impact, talking directly about finances makes sense.

Similarly, Asbury’s current financial season would justify such an approach.

Like so many households, the church carries obligations that we must meet. We have
debts to pay, responsibilities that require faithful stewardship, and commitments we
should honor both as a church and a community partner. However, Asbury remains
constrained by limited resources.

The numbers are real. A recent review of six (6) years of giving data revealed that almost 80
percent (%) of annual giving comes from contributors who give less than $400 per month.
We also have a significant gap between our average monthly giving of approximately
$65,000 and our monthly budgeted expenses of approximately $96,000.

These realities are true. They matter. And they would certainly justify a conversation about
money, beginning from that first position of “we need more cash.”

But there is a better place to start.

I believe we should begin with the relationships we value and the mission we share, then
work backward to why giving matters.

My family and I tithe. It is a discipline we practice and a tradition we are teaching our
children. Both Ronald and David have automated giving for Asbury, and every time one of
those thank-you emails appears, I smile.

We give because we believe in the mission and vision of this church.

We give because we see the fruit!

I shared on Sunday that during the last 45 days Asbury has helped prevent two evictions.
As I finish writing this letter, we have just approved support for a third family — a young
mother facing eviction due to outstanding rent. Because of your generosity, she will be
able to remain in her home and move forward.

In the last month, we have helped restore electricity and water for families in need. We
have served neighbors experiencing hunger. We have cared for individuals and families
facing housing insecurity. Repeatedly, Asbury has stepped into moments of crisis and
become a lifeline!

Your giving makes that possible.

On a broader scale, our giving extends far beyond the walls of Asbury. Through our
connectional giving, we support disaster recovery and relief efforts across the world.

Those funds have helped communities recover from hurricanes, flooding, and other
disasters in places such as Jamaica, North Carolina, Puerto Rico, and beyond.

One of my favorite examples of the impact of our giving is Africa University.

Because of the faithful giving of United Methodists, students who might otherwise never
have access to higher education receive scholarships, training, and opportunities that
can transform their lives and the lives of their families.

And here is the beautiful part.

This summer, Asbury will serve as an internship site for Wesley Theological Seminary. The
seminarian joining us this summer is a graduate of Africa University!

Think about that!

The seeds planted through faithful giving years ago are now bearing fruit right here

at Asbury. What began as generosity across an ocean has come back to bless our
congregation and community.

That is the Kingdom of God at work!

So, this is my landing point.

My family and I give because we see what God is doing through Asbury. We have
witnessed lives changed, families supported, students educated, communities
served, and hope restored.

Yes, the financial need is real. But I want to encourage you to prayerfully consider making
the additional $500 gift above your regular giving this summer, not simply because the
church needs money, but because we see the fruit of what God is doing through this
ministry.

For 190 years, God has been faithful to Asbury. We would not be here without the
sacrifices, prayers, and generosity of our predecessors.

And we will not reach the next generation without the faithfulness of those who are here
today.
        Thank you for your generosity!
        Thank you for your commitment!
        Thank you for believing in the mission!

Together, let us continue sowing seeds for the next 190 years.

Grace and Peace,

Rev. Dr. Ronald Bell, II