God Loves a Cheerful Giver

Throughout our lifetime, we have been involved in a few different congregations. We have been worshiping at Our Redeemer’s Church in Minot, North Dakota since 1993. This large, active congregation has offered a variety of ministry opportunities for our entire family. We believe that it was through the influence and teaching at Our Redeemer’s that our oldest son was led into ministry with the Church of the Lutheran Brethren. He is currently a student at Lutheran Brethren Seminary (LBS) and serving as Campus Pastor at Word of Life Church in New Prague, MN—a second campus planted by Word of Life Le Sueur, MN. The knowledge that he garners through instruction at LBS will hopefully have a similar impact on the people of his church. Our giving to the Seminary helps spread Christ’s message to all corners of the world.

Even though we have been part of a large congregation for many years, we also know the joy of being part of a small congregation. When Word of Life, Le Sueur was considering a second campus, it took us back forty years, to when our family was part of a church plant. The experience of participating in a brand-new congregation stays with a person forever. The relationships that are built and the anticipation of being able to bring God’s Word to a new community—it’s like nothing else! We are grateful to be able to support North American Mission, who are walking alongside Word of Life Church’s New Prague campus.

We are thankful that the CLB family supports one another. Following the devastation caused by Hurricane Ian in Florida, our support for Living Word Church in Cape Coral was doubled due to matching funds from other CLB members around the country. It is a blessing to know that we are part of the family of God, whether we are worshiping at home or in congregations across North Dakota, Minnesota, and Florida. CLB congregations welcome us with open arms, and we are confident that a sound, biblical message will be shared.

As we reflect back, our parents and grandparents were supportive of Christian ministries, and we believe that our support of LBS and the other CLB Ministries would find favor with them. Their stewardship and generosity have given us the opportunity to continue their legacy. We are encouraged by the words of 2 Corinthians 9:6-8.

Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.

We encourage all our fellow believers to give what they have been called to give in support of the Church of the Lutheran Brethren. Our Father in Heaven can and will use it for his glory!

Jason and Lisa Olson are members of Our Redeemer’s Church in Minot, North Dakota.