The United Methodist Stewardship Foundation

January 1, 2012 -- First Sunday After Christmas Day

O God, we are stirred this Christmastime to refocus our attention from the commercialism of Christmas to the miraculous birth of an infant who was born in a manger long ago. You have given us such a precious gift. Thank you, God. We offer you these gifts as our gratitude for all that you give to us. We pray in the name of that miraculous infant, the Baby Jesus. Amen.

January 6, 2012 -- Epiphany of the Lord

Great God, today we are reminded of the wondrous gifts of the Magi brought for the Prince of Peace. We have traveled to this time of worship, hoping to discover the thrill of new birth. And, indeed, we have smiles on our faces as we lift up our eyes, look around, and experience the presence of Jesus. We place these gifts, our gifts, upon your altar and rejoice in God's radiant love. Praise the Lord! Amen. (Isaiah 60:1-6.)

January 8, 2012 -- First Sunday After Epiphany/Baptism of the Lord

God of glory and strength, we share this offering with you as a response to your powerful acts in our own lives. We share our financial resources with you because of the splendorous ways that you have blessed us. Your majestic spirit fills our lives like the mighty waters fill the oceans. All glory is given to you, Lord God. In your powerful name, we pray. Amen. (Psalm 29.)

January 15, 2012 – Second Sunday After the Epiphany

Merciful God, you provide us with so many opportunities to follow Jesus' teaching and to live as modern-day disciples. We sometimes respond to your call with enumerable excuses or unfounded worries. We confuse our spiritual longing with the need for worldly objects. Yet these things provide only a false sense of security. As we offer these financial resources, transform us so that we are stirred to hear your call on our lives. We pray in the name of the Redeeming One, Jesus the Christ. Amen. (John 1:43-51.)

January 22, 2012 -- Third Sunday After the Epiphany

God of Deliverance, we pause during this time of worship to return to you some of the monetary riches that you have given to us. While we wait in pensive silence, we are reminded to set our hearts and minds on your steadfast love. You alone are our rock, our fortress, and our salvation. We experience comforting solace in your refuge. Thanks be to God! Amen. (Psalm 62:5-12.)

January 29, 2012 -- Fourth Sunday After the Epiphany

Awesome God, you sent Jesus to teach people firsthand the power of your love, grace, and authority. Jesus washed away unclean spirits and performed countless other miracles so that even the faithless would experience your love. You call us to be mindful and vigilant of the extraordinary miracles that you continue to work in our lives today. May this offering undergird ministries that show others your miraculous love, grace, and authority. We pray in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen. (Mark 1:21-28.)

Written by David S. Bell, Vice-President of Stewardship with the United Methodist Foundation of Michigan and Senior Design Partner with Design Group International™. You may contact him by visiting www.DavidSBell.org. Revised by Ken Sloane, Director of Stewardship for GBOD.