Giving

Giving is an act of worship where we put God first in our lives. In the United Methodist tradition, we recognize that our financial resources can easily become idols that compete for our devotion. Jesus spoke more about money than almost any other topic because He understood how it can grip our hearts. When we give, we're making a powerful statement: God, not money, is the center of our lives. Each offering is a sacred opportunity to break the hold that wealth can have on us, to loosen our grip on what we think gives us security and control. Scripture reminds us that "where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." Our giving isn't about earning God's favor—it's about aligning our priorities with Kingdom values. By releasing our tight grip on material resources, we open ourselves to experience God's transforming work within us, letting the Holy Spirit rearrange what we value most and helping us become more faithful disciples of Jesus Christ. 

Giving is an act of gratitude that flows from our recognition of God's abundant generosity in our lives. When we look around at the beauty of Colorado's mountains, the relationships that sustain us, and the daily provisions we often take for granted, we see God's handiwork woven through it all. In United Methodist tradition, we understand that all we have comes first from God's grace - everything is a gift. Our financial offerings aren't about obligation or earning favor, but rather a joyful response to what we've already received. Through our giving, we participate in God's ongoing work of transformation in our community and world. As we share our resources, we experience the profound contentment that a gratitude practice brings. Regular acknowledgment of God's blessings cultivates a spirit of joy that permeates our entire lives. This practice of gratitude doesn't just benefit the church—it shapes us into more generous disciples who reflect Christ's selfless love. 

Giving is a transformative practice that shapes who we become. When we engage in regular giving, we experience a profound inner change - our priorities shift, our perspective widens, and our hearts expand. This spiritual discipline helps us break free from materialism's grip and opens us to experience deeper joy and purpose. Through consistent giving, many discover an unexpected liberation as they learn to hold possessions lightly and find their identity in something greater than what they own. While scripture points us toward the tithe (10%) as a biblical standard, we understand that this can seem daunting if you're not accustomed to regular giving. We believe that starting where you are—with whatever percentage feels manageable—is better than not giving at all. As we experience financial blessings through raises or unexpected income, we can gradually increase our giving toward that 10% goal. Importantly, this tithe isn't necessarily meant only for the church; it represents our commitment to investing in making God's world better. At Sunrise, we recognize that churches must earn the privilege of receiving your generosity by demonstrating faithful stewardship and meaningful ministry. Your giving is both an act of worship and a practical investment in kingdom work that transforms lives—including your own. 

We understand that God does not need your money, while acknowledging that the church certainly does. In United Methodist theology, we recognize that God is not angry when we can't give, nor is God in desperate need of our financial resources. The Creator of the universe isn't waiting anxiously for our contributions. However, our church community has very real practical needs—we need to pay staff who serve our congregation, keep the lights on, maintain our building, and yes, even buy toilet paper. Your financial gifts directly enable the ministry work we do together. When we give, we're not appeasing God or earning favor, but rather participating in God's ongoing work through our faith community. Our giving helps transform our beautiful building from a financial concern into a powerful ministry tool that brings hope and healing to our community.