Each year, gifts to the Annie Armstrong Easter Offering support missionary salaries and training, church planting, and evangelism efforts in North America. While you may have heard of the Annie Armstrong Easter Offering, how much do you actually know about this incredible woman? Annie Walker Armstrong (1850-1938) was a remarkable advocate and supporter of missions. She lived in Baltimore, Maryland, during her 88 years of life. Influenced by her pastor and women important to her, Annie developed a passion for helping others in Jesus' name. Here are a few other facts:
She was involved in ministries to children, poor, and sick people but also felt burdened that the church should do more to evangelize the world. In one year, Annie wrote 18,000 letters encouraging people to give to missions.
Annie used her hands to write those letters, and she also used her hands to hold her Bible and learn more about how God wanted her to show His love to others. She also folded her hands to pray for people who needed to know about Jesus.
We honor and imitate Annie's love for lost people when we give to the offering named for her.
Give as a family to the Annie Armstrong Easter Offering
As you consider giving to the Annie Armstrong Easter Offering, think of including your family in the decision. Talk with your child about the amount of money your family would like to give this year. Use this simple activity to add meaning to your child's understanding of how and why your family gives.
Throughout one day or over the course of a week, give your child several small treats, such as one miniature candy, a quarter, a new pencil, or a sticker. Each time you give a treat, say: "I'd like to offer you a treat." When you have distributed all the goodies, reflect on how nice it is to receive treats.
Giving God an offering is like sharing a treat with Him. An offering is something we give because we want to show our gratitude to God and help others. A gift to the Annie Armstrong Easter Offering is extra special because it helps people hear about the love of Jesus Christ.
To learn more about Annie Armstrong, visit www.anniearmstrong.com.