Did you know that over the next 50 years, it is estimated that over $41 trillion will pass from older Americans to younger generations? However, nearly 60% of Americans (68% of African Americans) do not have a will. And only 8% of American wills contain any charitable giving whatsoever. The result is that only about 3% of all Christians, including United Methodists, leave anything to charity, with even less to continue God’s work. To paraphrase God, where are the other 97% to give thanks and glory to God? [Luke 17:11-19, NIV]
When God richly provides, as Christians, we have an opportunity to give a legacy tithe to ministries we cherish. Tithing is the practice of giving one-tenth of one's income or possessions to God. The final tithe is a way to continue blessing present and future generations even after you have completed your time on earth.
We ask that you consider a gift to the church in your will or in a beneficiary designation to establish a permanent endowment for future generations. Using your will or beneficiary designation to fund a permanent endowment to benefit the ministries at Ben Hill United Methodist is a gift that keeps on giving. If we as members of Ben Hill would leave a tenth of our estates to God, imagine the impact we could have for God’s kingdom! Jesus said, "Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” [Matthew 6:19-21, NIV, emphasis added.]
What will your legacy be? When you enter into God’s eternal kingdom, will your last act on earth be a witness that you had a heart for God?
The Ben Hill Legacy Endowment Giving (LEG) Committee is prepared to assist you in leaving a legacy that will stir God’s heart. As you stand before your Heavenly Father, our prayer is that you will hear these words: “Well done, good and faithful servant! … Come and share your master's happiness!” [Matt. 25:21, NIV]