God multiplies our gifts

I have found since becoming a member of Lutheran Women of Australia (LWA), that women have become very adept at fundraising for projects across the Lutheran Church.

Time is a God-given privilege. He alone knows how much time we have and when he will call us to our heavenly home.

There is a catchcry among some women: ‘I’ll help. If I find time to help with the Lord’s work, I can be pretty sure he’ll give me the time to finish what I have to do!’ This is the motivation I see in the faces of beautiful ladies as I have travelled in my role on the LWA executive.

Each state serves on the executive for a three-year term and we have 11 projects to support through fundraising. These include Aboriginal Missions; Australian Lutheran World Service; LCA International Mission programs and partnerships in Papua New Guinea, Cambodia, Malaysia and Thailand; support for overseas students studying at Australian Lutheran College (ALC); the ALC Women’s Auxiliary and the ALC Pastoral Ministry Assistance Fund.

Between January 2019 and December 2020 an inspirational total of $251,924.15 was raised. Even during COVID-19 LWA women have continued in their support. Innovative fundraising activities have included ‘cakeless stalls’, brown-wrapped auctions, catering for fellowship luncheons and high teas, and giving through knitted or crocheted rugs, toys, children’s clothing and beanies for all ages.

We are privileged to serve and when each women’s fellowship gives – no matter how much or little – God multiplies our gifts. We are all special in God’s sight, not because of our talents but because we are filled with the Spirit, which is how we serve God’s purpose.

Wendy Habel is President of LWA, which is an auxiliary of the LCA.

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