The Stock Market has been riding a roller coaster lately. Now, I consider myself an investing guru. I knew before everyone else, that people would not spend more than 50 cents for coffee. My extraordinary vision told me to stay away from Starbucks. Some 29 years ago I received a stock tip from a man in the church I was serving. I jumped on it and talked my Mother into investing too. When the company went bankrupt, my Mother was very understanding. But every time I saw her for the rest of her life, she brought it up.
I invested once in a stock called American Phone Meter. Have you heard of it? No surprise, they are out of business too. My tax accountant thinks that I invest to have more deductions. But three years ago I bought an oil stock at $44 a share. It peaked at $92.92. See, I am a stock guru. Yesterday that stock was trading at $9, and yes I still own it.
The Stock market has been riding a roller coaster. Investing in turbulent times is not easy. How do you want to invest the money that you have earned through years of labor? How do you want to invest the money that has been entrusted to you?
The Bible talks a lot about money, investing, and good stewardship. In the past 27 years Felicia and I have invested hundreds of thousands of dollars in the ministry of Trinity Lutheran Church. That money was invested very wisely. What an impressive track record.
Every year has been a winner. Every year has been marked by incredible dividends. Every year our Island neighbors have been helped. Every non-profit on the Island has benefited from TLC support. Every year people in Seattle have been touched by TLC. There are people in far off lands who are alive today, that would have died, without the generous touch of TLC.
Someday, when I am gone, my children will look at my stock portfolio and say, “What was Dad thinking?” But long after I am gone, this place will carry on. The love of Jesus will continue to transform lives. Young people will go to college on TLC Scholarships, the poor and hungry will be cared for, TLC will stand as a beacon of hope in a troubled world.
How do you want to invest? First, don’t take stock tips from me. Second, continue to invest in a ministry that touches lives and will touch the future!
Blessed to be a Blessing!
Love,
Pastor Jim
PS: This Sunday is TEE SHIRT SUNDAY. I invested in some TLC Tee Shirts and I still have a few to sell to break even. So wear your favorite Tee Shirt this Sunday.
