Ephesians 4:11-13
It was he who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers, to prepare God's people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ.
This fourth chapter of Ephesians speaks to the unity of the body, which implies the body of the church. Therefore, it may be a stretch to equate the local Christian school to the church, but there is the a parallel that relates to gifting.
In the Christian school, as in the church, there are many sources of gifts. There are those who organize events, write newsletters, maintain the the web site, take pictures, work alongside teachers, coach, accompany the choir, and so on.
Each year, God gives us new families who bring with them talent and gifts that are useful to the school. The application of these gifts is a blessing to the school and a blessing to the one who is getting to apply their talent to the Kingdom work of the school.
What is our job as "development" or "stewardship" officers? It is to uncover these gifts and to encourage their use for the school of even another ministry where they can be useful.
First, we may have to ask ourselves if we have the "gift" of identifying gifts. This talent, I believe, is an acquired skill that comes from investing time in and attention to people so that we can hear their heart and to nurture them. In that sense, stewardship has a pastoral component.
This week I have the privilege of speaking to administrators at the ACCS (association of Classical and Christian Schools) conference in North Carolina. One of my tasks will be to challenge (provoke?) my peers to dig deeper and to see our work as larger than simply raising monetary resources.
After all, we are not in these jobs only because of the cash we bring, are we?
Showing posts with label Encourage. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Encourage. Show all posts
Monday, June 14, 2010
Friday, April 23, 2010
The Power of a Good Word
In the last several weeks our school had a visitor who toured and was very impressed with our
- Small classes
- Efficient operations
- "Back to basics" approach to curriculum
- Discipline
- Manners and attentiveness of the students
When I followed up with him after the tour he told me that he did not have financial resources to invest, but he would be willing to write a letter to the editor of the local paper.
Today the letter was printed on the Opinion page where he declared that here is a "school that does more with less", referring to efficiency and focus of the school. No doubt, this will resonate with people who care about education in general because they see how much is invested in the public school system.
The beauty of the world in which we work is that there is always something to offer or to give. In this case, a non-Christian can sing the praises of a school that is reminiscent of the school he remembered as a boy.
Our stewardship work is to create an environment of generosity where people experience the joy of doing something outside of their own interests. Oftentimes, this is a "Christan-to-Christian" experience, but it does not need to be.
Also, we never know how the Lord may use this introduction to lead us into the next conversation when we can discuss matters of eternal consequence.
Monday, April 12, 2010
Christian Stewardship and the Expectant Heart
The school where I work has an end-of-the-year "mini" campaign to raise the balance of the Annual Fund.
In organizing this work, we enlisted a parent to chair the campaign and thirteen Class Captains to pray for each class and to follow up to encourage 100% participation from the other parents.
I don't know what the Lord will do with our specific financial goals, but even now I can see some of the marvelous work He has begun:
In organizing this work, we enlisted a parent to chair the campaign and thirteen Class Captains to pray for each class and to follow up to encourage 100% participation from the other parents.
I don't know what the Lord will do with our specific financial goals, but even now I can see some of the marvelous work He has begun:
- Several parents have expressed their confidence in what the Lord will do for the school and are praying
- A parent visited me this morning and told me she thinks she will will write a "missionary letter" to her congregation and ask them to support this school that ministers to unbelievers
- A set of grandparents who are willing to tell their story so that other grandparents will be motivated to give to the campaign
- Another meeting this morning with a Classroom Captain who said that our conversation helped her enlarge her vision for the school. She said she will urge her husband to do more than they first thought.
That's the role of the stewardship officer. We are to be seed planters, vision casters, gift revealers, and faith encouragers. In doing this work, we trust the Holy Spirit to do the "heavy lifting" of moving in hearts so that His people desire to release generously into the Kingdom role He has for us.
Eph. 3:20-21
Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Stewardship and Snow Shoveling
Romans 12:6-8
We have different gifts, according to he grace given us.
If a man's gift is prophesying, let him use it in proportion to his faith. If it is serving, let him serve; if it is teaching, let him teach.
If it is encouraging, let him encourage. If it is contributing to the needs of others, let him give generously; if it is leadership, let him govern diligently; if it is showing mercy, let him do it cheerfully.
Many of us are having a lot of snow these days and I have not been feeling too grateful for the weather; especially since I am doing the removal without the aid of a powerful snow blower.
But, in my last outing to remove the most recent four inches, I was struck with the need to praise God and to be thankful for some gifts I had not thought of.
I am thankful for inventors, especially the ones who created waterproof clothing so I can be outside and not get wet. I was grateful for the shovel design that saves my back (a little!) from bad ergonomic moves. I am grateful for the paving company that made my driveway smooth and easy to push the shovel against.
Now, I remember what we stewardship officers are to be excelling in. We are supposed to be the encouragers that Paul writes about. We are to see the giftedness in others and, in a way that blesses (not puffs up), tell them about how grateful we are.
Then, we are to help our friends leverage the skill for the Kingdom so that the important expansion work is done and that so that others might be inspired to do likewise.
Why, I am almost ready to take another pass at that blizzard!
We have different gifts, according to he grace given us.
If a man's gift is prophesying, let him use it in proportion to his faith. If it is serving, let him serve; if it is teaching, let him teach.
If it is encouraging, let him encourage. If it is contributing to the needs of others, let him give generously; if it is leadership, let him govern diligently; if it is showing mercy, let him do it cheerfully.
Many of us are having a lot of snow these days and I have not been feeling too grateful for the weather; especially since I am doing the removal without the aid of a powerful snow blower.
But, in my last outing to remove the most recent four inches, I was struck with the need to praise God and to be thankful for some gifts I had not thought of.
I am thankful for inventors, especially the ones who created waterproof clothing so I can be outside and not get wet. I was grateful for the shovel design that saves my back (a little!) from bad ergonomic moves. I am grateful for the paving company that made my driveway smooth and easy to push the shovel against.
Now, I remember what we stewardship officers are to be excelling in. We are supposed to be the encouragers that Paul writes about. We are to see the giftedness in others and, in a way that blesses (not puffs up), tell them about how grateful we are.
Then, we are to help our friends leverage the skill for the Kingdom so that the important expansion work is done and that so that others might be inspired to do likewise.
Why, I am almost ready to take another pass at that blizzard!
Thursday, December 31, 2009
This is the Day!
There is a light snow falling this morning as we wait for the year to run out the clock and we are ushered into a new year and decade.
What thoughts come to your mind as you consider the year past and where we go from here?
Here are some musings from someone who has had a nice two-week break from most of my usual activities:
1. Seek the Lord - Deut. 4:29 "But if from there you seek the LORD your God, you will find him if you look for him with all your heart and will all your soul."
We can be gazing heavenward even as we work and toil on this earth. Our charge is to seek Him first and all these things will be added...
2. Trust in the Lord - This is the time to remember that all good things come from the hands of an always good God who has our best interests in mind.
3. Try to see our ministry as only one small part of the Kingdom work - While what we and our ministries do is vitality important for the community and beyond, God is not constrained by our shortcomings; nor is He more potent if we are experiencing growth and greater impact.
4. Reflect Jesus - every meeting or interaction is an opportunity to represent the One who sends us. Remember His kindness and compassion and His desire to see the fullness of what He has to offer.
5. Go deeper - In a world characterized by thin and temporal relationships, make every effort to have meaningful interactions so that others will be valued. We, too, have a greater sense of satisfaction when we can think of one or two really great conversations.
6. Seek the "bi-lateral" blessing of matching a donor's desires with the ministry needs. It may mean a non-cash opportunity, but God Himself will release the funds at the right time and in the right amount.
7. Expect the unexpected - these are not "normal" times in the non-profit world. Look for new approaches and partnerships that can yield even greater impact - it may mean that we don't control everything.
8. Make connections with peers - if we have ever needed the support and encouragement from each other it is now. Set aside time each week or month to connect with a peer who can encourage you and who you can do the same for.
9. Laugh at yourself - We can take our work seriously, but let us not take ourselves to seriously. Our Lord who reigns in heaven must look down on our (often) clumsy efforts and smile at our attempts to be successful.
10. Can't think of one more - drop me a line and finish the list, please....
God Bless!
What thoughts come to your mind as you consider the year past and where we go from here?
Here are some musings from someone who has had a nice two-week break from most of my usual activities:
1. Seek the Lord - Deut. 4:29 "But if from there you seek the LORD your God, you will find him if you look for him with all your heart and will all your soul."
We can be gazing heavenward even as we work and toil on this earth. Our charge is to seek Him first and all these things will be added...
2. Trust in the Lord - This is the time to remember that all good things come from the hands of an always good God who has our best interests in mind.
3. Try to see our ministry as only one small part of the Kingdom work - While what we and our ministries do is vitality important for the community and beyond, God is not constrained by our shortcomings; nor is He more potent if we are experiencing growth and greater impact.
4. Reflect Jesus - every meeting or interaction is an opportunity to represent the One who sends us. Remember His kindness and compassion and His desire to see the fullness of what He has to offer.
5. Go deeper - In a world characterized by thin and temporal relationships, make every effort to have meaningful interactions so that others will be valued. We, too, have a greater sense of satisfaction when we can think of one or two really great conversations.
6. Seek the "bi-lateral" blessing of matching a donor's desires with the ministry needs. It may mean a non-cash opportunity, but God Himself will release the funds at the right time and in the right amount.
7. Expect the unexpected - these are not "normal" times in the non-profit world. Look for new approaches and partnerships that can yield even greater impact - it may mean that we don't control everything.
8. Make connections with peers - if we have ever needed the support and encouragement from each other it is now. Set aside time each week or month to connect with a peer who can encourage you and who you can do the same for.
9. Laugh at yourself - We can take our work seriously, but let us not take ourselves to seriously. Our Lord who reigns in heaven must look down on our (often) clumsy efforts and smile at our attempts to be successful.
10. Can't think of one more - drop me a line and finish the list, please....
God Bless!
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
The Purpose-Driven Fundraiser
Malachi 3:10
Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this," says the Lord Almighty, "and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that you will not have room enough for it.
In the development world we are always connecting with people and explaining our work. When asked, many of us would answer "I am the development officer for ...." or "I am the fundraiser for ....". True enough, that describes our specific function, but it falls short of the wonderful purpose God has given us to be catalysts for biblical stewardship.
If we see our purpose as larger (dare I say global?) then we may begin to approach our work as more than fulfilling a role in the organizational chart or raising a certain sum of money.
What if you answered the "what do you do" question with "My role is to encourage people to unleash resources from their wealth and plow them into the Kingdom". To which, they would reply (after they chuckled in amusement), "That's a tall order".
Indeed it is and that is why it requires the very word of God and the moving of the Holy Spirit.
However, if we let the Spirit do the "heavy lifting" of changing hearts, then our work is one of being an aid to and a messenger of the One who owns all of the resources and our very lives in the palm of His hand. And, according to Scripture, we are to test God in this and see if He does not throw open the floodgates of heaven.
When we look at our work with this bigger view we are better positioned to be a help to the donor. Even if we are part of an effort that causes the donor to give to a ministry other than our own, we can rejoice because the donor was blessed in the act of giving.
"Raising our gaze" gives our work the high calling that it should have.
Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this," says the Lord Almighty, "and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that you will not have room enough for it.
In the development world we are always connecting with people and explaining our work. When asked, many of us would answer "I am the development officer for ...." or "I am the fundraiser for ....". True enough, that describes our specific function, but it falls short of the wonderful purpose God has given us to be catalysts for biblical stewardship.
If we see our purpose as larger (dare I say global?) then we may begin to approach our work as more than fulfilling a role in the organizational chart or raising a certain sum of money.
What if you answered the "what do you do" question with "My role is to encourage people to unleash resources from their wealth and plow them into the Kingdom". To which, they would reply (after they chuckled in amusement), "That's a tall order".
Indeed it is and that is why it requires the very word of God and the moving of the Holy Spirit.
However, if we let the Spirit do the "heavy lifting" of changing hearts, then our work is one of being an aid to and a messenger of the One who owns all of the resources and our very lives in the palm of His hand. And, according to Scripture, we are to test God in this and see if He does not throw open the floodgates of heaven.
When we look at our work with this bigger view we are better positioned to be a help to the donor. Even if we are part of an effort that causes the donor to give to a ministry other than our own, we can rejoice because the donor was blessed in the act of giving.
"Raising our gaze" gives our work the high calling that it should have.
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
The Millionaire (Donor) Next Door
In recent conversations with other development officers, I hear the this popular refrain, "If we just find the wealthy donor who is waiting for us to show up with our compelling story..."
It probably goes without saying, but this situation does not exist. Wealthy people who are ready to give are already seeking out opportunities to give and already have an idea of the kinds of ministries they are interested in supporting. Also, there are no wealthy people who feel guilty about their wealth such that they are looking for place to assuage their guilt.
Instead, I encourage ministry leaders to look at the people who are already involved with the ministry. Sadly, we assume that a person's current level of involvement is all there will ever be. So, a donor who volunteers a few hours per month and give $50 each month may not be on the radar screen.
This is a problem in several ways. First, we need to honor and thank everyone who God brings to support the ministry work. Secondly, we may be missing an opportunity to help those who are supportive to become even more engaged.
Here are four questions that might be helpful in going to the next level:
1. Tell me how you got involved with us? What was it that first attracted you to our work?
2. What do you see today? How is that different than what first got you involved?
3. What do you see for our future? In three years, what could see the Lord doing here?
4. How do you see yourself participating in this future? Are we utilizing your gifts as fully as we can? How can we do this better?
By "going deeper" with our donor-friends we are being good stewards of our time; not going after new donors while there are current friends we can get to know better.
Try this and let me know what you think of this approach.
It probably goes without saying, but this situation does not exist. Wealthy people who are ready to give are already seeking out opportunities to give and already have an idea of the kinds of ministries they are interested in supporting. Also, there are no wealthy people who feel guilty about their wealth such that they are looking for place to assuage their guilt.
Instead, I encourage ministry leaders to look at the people who are already involved with the ministry. Sadly, we assume that a person's current level of involvement is all there will ever be. So, a donor who volunteers a few hours per month and give $50 each month may not be on the radar screen.
This is a problem in several ways. First, we need to honor and thank everyone who God brings to support the ministry work. Secondly, we may be missing an opportunity to help those who are supportive to become even more engaged.
Here are four questions that might be helpful in going to the next level:
1. Tell me how you got involved with us? What was it that first attracted you to our work?
2. What do you see today? How is that different than what first got you involved?
3. What do you see for our future? In three years, what could see the Lord doing here?
4. How do you see yourself participating in this future? Are we utilizing your gifts as fully as we can? How can we do this better?
By "going deeper" with our donor-friends we are being good stewards of our time; not going after new donors while there are current friends we can get to know better.
Try this and let me know what you think of this approach.
Friday, August 7, 2009
Blessing - the "Healthy Alternative to Greed"
Proverbs 11:23-26
The desire of the righteous ends only in good, but the hope of the wicked only in wrath.
One man gives freely, yet gains even more; another withholds unduly, but comes to poverty.
A generous man will prosper; he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed.
People curse the man who hoards grain, but blessing crowns him who is willing to sell.
The Bible reminds us frequently of our need to think of others. Of course, this is modeled perfectly in the life and sacrificial death of our Lord Jesus when He (the innocent one) volunteered to leave the glories of heaven to come to earth to fulfill His commission to redeem the lost.
We cannot do what Jesus did, nor are we called to. But, the wisdom literature of the Bible instructs us in a pattern of healthy living that calls us to let go of what is "ours" and commit it to the Kingdom.
"A generous man will prosper; he who refreshes others hemself will be refreshed."
How refreshing! Does the Bible tell us (me) that we are really healthier when we give our time, talent and treasure away to those in need? Yes, indeed!
When we, as "stewardship agents", commit ourselves to blessing others with our gifts we are exercising the same disciplines that we ask our donors to; give out of our blessing in response to what Christ has done for us.
As an aside, when we put others in the center of our view, our own problems and challenges seem to to shrink; that is a good thing, too.
There is no act or thought that we have that does not have a spiritual dimension. Let's ask the Lord to give us that heart for others so that the next interaction we have enriches someone else.
The desire of the righteous ends only in good, but the hope of the wicked only in wrath.
One man gives freely, yet gains even more; another withholds unduly, but comes to poverty.
A generous man will prosper; he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed.
People curse the man who hoards grain, but blessing crowns him who is willing to sell.
The Bible reminds us frequently of our need to think of others. Of course, this is modeled perfectly in the life and sacrificial death of our Lord Jesus when He (the innocent one) volunteered to leave the glories of heaven to come to earth to fulfill His commission to redeem the lost.
We cannot do what Jesus did, nor are we called to. But, the wisdom literature of the Bible instructs us in a pattern of healthy living that calls us to let go of what is "ours" and commit it to the Kingdom.
"A generous man will prosper; he who refreshes others hemself will be refreshed."
How refreshing! Does the Bible tell us (me) that we are really healthier when we give our time, talent and treasure away to those in need? Yes, indeed!
When we, as "stewardship agents", commit ourselves to blessing others with our gifts we are exercising the same disciplines that we ask our donors to; give out of our blessing in response to what Christ has done for us.
As an aside, when we put others in the center of our view, our own problems and challenges seem to to shrink; that is a good thing, too.
There is no act or thought that we have that does not have a spiritual dimension. Let's ask the Lord to give us that heart for others so that the next interaction we have enriches someone else.
Thursday, July 16, 2009
Graciousness in the Stewardship Ministry
1 Th. 5:14-15
And we urge you, brothers, warn those who are idle, encourage the timid, help the weak, be patient with everyone. Make sure that nobody pays back wrong for wrong, but always try to be kind to each other and to everyone else.
It has been said that a little knowledge is a dangerous thing. This statement is borne out in my life almost every day as I do my work to bless others and to release resources for the Kingdom. I get this little piece of truth and then feel compelled to go out and "share" with everyone I meet. This is not the best way to do this ministry; displaying grace is in order.
I have seen wonderful examples of people who have grabbed hold of the joy of generous giving. These people stand out in their understanding that God's everything and that we are stewards of God's riches (again, time, talent and treasure). What is equally impressive is the humility that they bring to this point in their lives.
Some of the most generous givers are the most humble, too. They have been awed by the grace God has shown and the mercy they have experienced. As such they are not trumpeting this new found awareness or, worse, using as a club to beat others into "submission", or obedience if we want to be more righteous about it.
This passage from Thessalonians speaks to me. It reminds me that I am to be a truth-teller about God's wonderful provisions to each of us, and that we are to use them in Kingdom-building ways that reflects ours passions.
However, I cannot be prescriptive or dogmatic in these interactions. While I should have a sense of urgency about encouraging others to give their wealth, I must be gentle, patient and kind as we talk. It is not for me to do the convicting; that is the work of the Holy Spirit.
So, this situation creates a little tension for hard-charging and passionate people like me; how can I be a bold and confident messenger for our Lord Jesus Christ while remembering that He works in His own way and in His own time.
I must bow my own head in humility and ask to have me display the same grace I have been shown.
And we urge you, brothers, warn those who are idle, encourage the timid, help the weak, be patient with everyone. Make sure that nobody pays back wrong for wrong, but always try to be kind to each other and to everyone else.
It has been said that a little knowledge is a dangerous thing. This statement is borne out in my life almost every day as I do my work to bless others and to release resources for the Kingdom. I get this little piece of truth and then feel compelled to go out and "share" with everyone I meet. This is not the best way to do this ministry; displaying grace is in order.
I have seen wonderful examples of people who have grabbed hold of the joy of generous giving. These people stand out in their understanding that God's everything and that we are stewards of God's riches (again, time, talent and treasure). What is equally impressive is the humility that they bring to this point in their lives.
Some of the most generous givers are the most humble, too. They have been awed by the grace God has shown and the mercy they have experienced. As such they are not trumpeting this new found awareness or, worse, using as a club to beat others into "submission", or obedience if we want to be more righteous about it.
This passage from Thessalonians speaks to me. It reminds me that I am to be a truth-teller about God's wonderful provisions to each of us, and that we are to use them in Kingdom-building ways that reflects ours passions.
However, I cannot be prescriptive or dogmatic in these interactions. While I should have a sense of urgency about encouraging others to give their wealth, I must be gentle, patient and kind as we talk. It is not for me to do the convicting; that is the work of the Holy Spirit.
So, this situation creates a little tension for hard-charging and passionate people like me; how can I be a bold and confident messenger for our Lord Jesus Christ while remembering that He works in His own way and in His own time.
I must bow my own head in humility and ask to have me display the same grace I have been shown.
Thursday, July 9, 2009
Discipleship Through Listening and Asking Questions
In the discipling work that we do, we can contribute to our donor/friends through the process of self-discovery; that is, asking questions that draw them into deeper thinking about their own stewardship.
Before we look at the list, it is always important to remember that asking questions should be done with a humble heart, keeping in mind that we did not always "get it" nor are we the agents of change. The Holy Spirit does the heart work; we are used by Him to help others see the Lord in deeper and more profound ways.
Also, for men like me, listening is a difficult skill. It is much more than just taking turns at talking. It is a high-energy effort that requires full attention to both the "what" and "how" is being said. It means not racing ahead to the next point so we can arrive at the proper conclusion. Building relationships is a process and we need to understand that transformation (as it is for us) is a marathon, not a sprint.
Even when we have the time, we may not have the relationship yet to ask really probing questions. It is also important not to get ahead here, too. Asking permission is a good way to know how to proceed.
All that said, here are some questions that can be helpful in beginning the dialogue to generous giving:
Before we look at the list, it is always important to remember that asking questions should be done with a humble heart, keeping in mind that we did not always "get it" nor are we the agents of change. The Holy Spirit does the heart work; we are used by Him to help others see the Lord in deeper and more profound ways.
Also, for men like me, listening is a difficult skill. It is much more than just taking turns at talking. It is a high-energy effort that requires full attention to both the "what" and "how" is being said. It means not racing ahead to the next point so we can arrive at the proper conclusion. Building relationships is a process and we need to understand that transformation (as it is for us) is a marathon, not a sprint.
Even when we have the time, we may not have the relationship yet to ask really probing questions. It is also important not to get ahead here, too. Asking permission is a good way to know how to proceed.
All that said, here are some questions that can be helpful in beginning the dialogue to generous giving:
- Why do you give?
- Who is the owner of all you possess?
- How much (money) is enough?
- What is an appropriate lifestyle?
- Where do you experience the most joy in giving?
- Who is the next steward of your resources, and is that person prepared?
- Have you considered establishing annual and lifetime giving goals?
As we ask these, remember that the Lord is asking these of us as well - it will orient our minds and hearts.
Monday, May 18, 2009
The Testimony of Generosity
The Living Stone and a Chosen People
1 Peter 2:4-12
As you come to him, the living Stone--rejected by men but chosen by God and precious to him-- you also, like living stones, are being built into a spiritual house to be a holy priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.
For in Scripture it says: "See, I lay a stone in Zion, a chosen and precious cornerstone, and the one who trusts in him will never be put to shame."
Now to you who believe, this stone is precious. But to those who do not believe, "The stone the builders rejected has become the capstone," and, "A stone that causes men to stumble and a rock that makes them fall." They stumble because they disobey the message--which is also what they were destined for.
But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.
Once you were not a people, but now you are the people of God; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy.
Dear friends, I urge you, as aliens and strangers in the world, to abstain from sinful desires, which war against your soul.
Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us.
I have heard recently that a foundation that supports public schools exceeded their fundraising goal. They also had a really good time, lots of teamwork, and genuine appreciation for each others' gifts and talents.
When I see these qualities in non-Christian settings I am struck by their hopefulness, confidence, and joy in the mission. And, their hope is not in the Cross and the promise of eternal life - what gives?
In contrast, many schools seem so defeated and dour in their outlook as though "the world is winning".
What would happen if we lived our faith in victory and in "Cross confidence"?
What if schools were known for the amazing support that poured into them because donors believed (and knew) that wonderful Kingdom work was happening here?
Maybe we could stop looking at "those guys over there" and be blessed with the Christian generosity the Lord is sending our way.
What if non-Christian organizations were looking at how we were doing things so that they would be interested enough to ask about our school?
What if that became an opportunity to share the Gospel? "....they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us."
1 Peter 2:4-12
As you come to him, the living Stone--rejected by men but chosen by God and precious to him-- you also, like living stones, are being built into a spiritual house to be a holy priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.
For in Scripture it says: "See, I lay a stone in Zion, a chosen and precious cornerstone, and the one who trusts in him will never be put to shame."
Now to you who believe, this stone is precious. But to those who do not believe, "The stone the builders rejected has become the capstone," and, "A stone that causes men to stumble and a rock that makes them fall." They stumble because they disobey the message--which is also what they were destined for.
But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.
Once you were not a people, but now you are the people of God; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy.
Dear friends, I urge you, as aliens and strangers in the world, to abstain from sinful desires, which war against your soul.
Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us.
I have heard recently that a foundation that supports public schools exceeded their fundraising goal. They also had a really good time, lots of teamwork, and genuine appreciation for each others' gifts and talents.
When I see these qualities in non-Christian settings I am struck by their hopefulness, confidence, and joy in the mission. And, their hope is not in the Cross and the promise of eternal life - what gives?
In contrast, many schools seem so defeated and dour in their outlook as though "the world is winning".
What would happen if we lived our faith in victory and in "Cross confidence"?
What if schools were known for the amazing support that poured into them because donors believed (and knew) that wonderful Kingdom work was happening here?
Maybe we could stop looking at "those guys over there" and be blessed with the Christian generosity the Lord is sending our way.
What if non-Christian organizations were looking at how we were doing things so that they would be interested enough to ask about our school?
What if that became an opportunity to share the Gospel? "....they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us."
Monday, April 27, 2009
Sowing and reaping - doing good
Galatians 6:7-10
"Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. The one who sows to please his sinful nature, from that nature will reap destruction; the one who sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life.
Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially those who belong to the family of believers."
There are (at least) two frustrating dimensions in development:
1. Having so many rejections when you are in the middle of doing so much to raise funds - planting seeds.
2. Having those you report to get frustrated because the money is not coming fast enough - this is the "long germination" syndrome.
There is always a delay between sowing and reaping. Farmers and gardeners will experience a lot of anxiety, watching over the dormant seeds for weeks and weeks.
But, it always comes up. We will see the fruit and benefits "come up". Paul is reminding us not to lose heart - we are called to persevere even when the odds or conditions are stacked against us.
What is "doing good" sowing? In verse 10 we are told to "do good" to all people, but especially Christians. This phrase is very sweeping and comprehensive. It means that we are not confined to evangelism and discipling; loving is larger than that. It means seeing a need and meeting it, as it is in our power to do so. Alleviating pain and comforting are examples.
How does this help me in my development goals? Paul does not tell us; he leaves us to guess. Maybe we are to "discover" the benefits of such a lifestyle. In the short run, such a life entails a tremendous number of sacrifices. You bind your heart up emotionally to people who may have no intention or ability to respond in kind. You may miss other "more profitable" relationships where the giving ground is more fertile.
Here are some benefits. Lives are changed, and we may even be thanked. Second, we may have been used to be a soothing balm in a family. Third, we may see those who burdens we have carried become burden bearers.
If we do not only measure our sowing by outward success, we will find our own character changed deeply through ministry. Our consciences will be clear and hearts happy since we are less self-indulgent. We develop a less selfish and more faithful character which serves us well under pressure.
Even under the pressure of raising funds.
"Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. The one who sows to please his sinful nature, from that nature will reap destruction; the one who sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life.
Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially those who belong to the family of believers."
There are (at least) two frustrating dimensions in development:
1. Having so many rejections when you are in the middle of doing so much to raise funds - planting seeds.
2. Having those you report to get frustrated because the money is not coming fast enough - this is the "long germination" syndrome.
There is always a delay between sowing and reaping. Farmers and gardeners will experience a lot of anxiety, watching over the dormant seeds for weeks and weeks.
But, it always comes up. We will see the fruit and benefits "come up". Paul is reminding us not to lose heart - we are called to persevere even when the odds or conditions are stacked against us.
What is "doing good" sowing? In verse 10 we are told to "do good" to all people, but especially Christians. This phrase is very sweeping and comprehensive. It means that we are not confined to evangelism and discipling; loving is larger than that. It means seeing a need and meeting it, as it is in our power to do so. Alleviating pain and comforting are examples.
How does this help me in my development goals? Paul does not tell us; he leaves us to guess. Maybe we are to "discover" the benefits of such a lifestyle. In the short run, such a life entails a tremendous number of sacrifices. You bind your heart up emotionally to people who may have no intention or ability to respond in kind. You may miss other "more profitable" relationships where the giving ground is more fertile.
Here are some benefits. Lives are changed, and we may even be thanked. Second, we may have been used to be a soothing balm in a family. Third, we may see those who burdens we have carried become burden bearers.
If we do not only measure our sowing by outward success, we will find our own character changed deeply through ministry. Our consciences will be clear and hearts happy since we are less self-indulgent. We develop a less selfish and more faithful character which serves us well under pressure.
Even under the pressure of raising funds.
Thursday, April 9, 2009
Ann - a blessing in disguise
Proverbs 3:28
Do not say to your neighbor, "Come back later; I'll give it tomorrow"-- when you now have it with you.
Luke 10:27
He answered: " 'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind'; and, 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' "
I wrote earlier about the "spiritual" experience of sitting through a timeshare sale presentation. If we had not gone through this we would have missed the ministry opportunity we had with the "front person" who scheduled the visit in the first place.
God works in wonderful and mysterious ways; sometimes I am too busy looking in the wrong place to see Him work.
Meet Ann, the "concierge" at the resort we visited in South Carolina.
She scheduled our timeshare sales presentation; that should have been our last interaction.
However, she invited us to come back and let her schedule and reserve the seats for the entertainment that we earned for sitting for 2 hours. She was so helpful that we asked for advice for places to dine; she gave us great seats at the show and great advice on dining, too.
Something else was calling us into a deeper relationship with Ann. While we talked with her more, we found out that she had 2 previous marriages and no husband now for a medically-distressed four-year-old daughter, who weighs only 14 pounds - I thought I had problems!
Ann works all day and stays up all night with her daughter who can't sleep except for short naps; this goes on for 4 days each week. I get tired just thinking about it.
With all of the kindness Ann showed us, my wife and I bought a little gift for her daughter and presented it to her the next day. You might have thought the gift was a new home by her reaction; she was crying tears of joy before she opened the stuffed animal and a Max Lucado book for children. She gave us an Easter card the next day; more tears and hugs - you get the picture.
If you have gone this far, you may ask, 'what has this got to with development?'
All of life, if seen through the Savior's eyes, is a spiritual experience. There is a life lesson in almost all we do, especially when we go "life on life".
Ann is another person created in God's image with purpose, capacity, passion and a legacy. If we can open the heart doors through acts of genuine Christian love, there are marvelous opportunities to minister Christ and usher folks into new and exciting places; places where they can impact lives for eternity.
Isn't that worth the time with a stranger?
Do not say to your neighbor, "Come back later; I'll give it tomorrow"-- when you now have it with you.
Luke 10:27
He answered: " 'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind'; and, 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' "
I wrote earlier about the "spiritual" experience of sitting through a timeshare sale presentation. If we had not gone through this we would have missed the ministry opportunity we had with the "front person" who scheduled the visit in the first place.
God works in wonderful and mysterious ways; sometimes I am too busy looking in the wrong place to see Him work.
Meet Ann, the "concierge" at the resort we visited in South Carolina.
She scheduled our timeshare sales presentation; that should have been our last interaction.
However, she invited us to come back and let her schedule and reserve the seats for the entertainment that we earned for sitting for 2 hours. She was so helpful that we asked for advice for places to dine; she gave us great seats at the show and great advice on dining, too.
Something else was calling us into a deeper relationship with Ann. While we talked with her more, we found out that she had 2 previous marriages and no husband now for a medically-distressed four-year-old daughter, who weighs only 14 pounds - I thought I had problems!
Ann works all day and stays up all night with her daughter who can't sleep except for short naps; this goes on for 4 days each week. I get tired just thinking about it.
With all of the kindness Ann showed us, my wife and I bought a little gift for her daughter and presented it to her the next day. You might have thought the gift was a new home by her reaction; she was crying tears of joy before she opened the stuffed animal and a Max Lucado book for children. She gave us an Easter card the next day; more tears and hugs - you get the picture.
If you have gone this far, you may ask, 'what has this got to with development?'
All of life, if seen through the Savior's eyes, is a spiritual experience. There is a life lesson in almost all we do, especially when we go "life on life".
Ann is another person created in God's image with purpose, capacity, passion and a legacy. If we can open the heart doors through acts of genuine Christian love, there are marvelous opportunities to minister Christ and usher folks into new and exciting places; places where they can impact lives for eternity.
Isn't that worth the time with a stranger?
Friday, March 13, 2009
Encourage each other, please
Five times in Paul's letters to the church at Thessalonica we see the word encourage. Here are a few:
1 Thessalonians 3:2
We sent Timothy, who is our brother and God's fellow worker in spreading the gospel of Christ, to strengthen and encourage you in your faith,
1 Thessalonians 5:11
Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.
2 Thessalonians 2:1617
May our Lord Jesus Christ himself and God our Father, who loved us and by his grace gave us eternal encouragement and good hope,encourage your hearts and strengthen you in every good deed and word.
Someone you know needs a to hear a good word from you today. Not just a saccharine greeting, but a specific, "this is what I appreciate about you."
Look out the window and think about a donor or a colleague that would be blessed with your thoughtfulness and care. Then, call or write - don't put it off.
With the work we are called to do, even (especially?) the workers could use some words of encouragement.
While you're at it, drop me a line at hnaylor@tca-pa.org and tell me how the blog is hitting you. I want to be sure these "hits and missives" are hitting the mark.
Be blessed and be a blessing!
Harold
1 Thessalonians 3:2
We sent Timothy, who is our brother and God's fellow worker in spreading the gospel of Christ, to strengthen and encourage you in your faith,
1 Thessalonians 5:11
Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.
2 Thessalonians 2:1617
May our Lord Jesus Christ himself and God our Father, who loved us and by his grace gave us eternal encouragement and good hope,encourage your hearts and strengthen you in every good deed and word.
Someone you know needs a to hear a good word from you today. Not just a saccharine greeting, but a specific, "this is what I appreciate about you."
Look out the window and think about a donor or a colleague that would be blessed with your thoughtfulness and care. Then, call or write - don't put it off.
With the work we are called to do, even (especially?) the workers could use some words of encouragement.
While you're at it, drop me a line at hnaylor@tca-pa.org and tell me how the blog is hitting you. I want to be sure these "hits and missives" are hitting the mark.
Be blessed and be a blessing!
Harold
Thursday, March 12, 2009
Celebrate the non-cash gifts
Romans 12:4-8
Just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function,
so in Christ we who are many form one body, and each member belongs to all the others.
We have different gifts, according to the grace given us. If a man's gift is prophesying, let him use it in proportion to his faith.
If it is serving, let him serve; if it is teaching, let him teach;
if it is encouraging, let him encourage; if it is contributing to the needs of others, let him give generously; if it is leadership, let him govern diligently; if it is showing mercy, let him do it cheerfully.
God has blessed our schools with "quiet angels", those saints who volunteer and do work that is rarely recognized. Most of these folks don't want recognition; they do what they do for the Lord and to bless the school that they love.
I suggest that you take some time out of your schedule to thank and celebrate the good gifts that are being used for the Kingdom building at your school. This is an important stewardship effort even if it is difficult to value in dollars.
As you are having these discussions, why not ask a few questions? In your own words, of course.
1. How or why did you come to volunteer?
2. What is it about the school that keeps you coming back? This is especially true of the volunteers who no longer have children in the school.
3. Are we utilizing your gifts as you would like for us to?
4. Are there other areas of the school in which you would like to participate?
5. Are we grateful receivers of your generous giving?
And, praise the Lord with them that He has moved in the hearts of His people to steward this portion of their gifts.
Just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function,
so in Christ we who are many form one body, and each member belongs to all the others.
We have different gifts, according to the grace given us. If a man's gift is prophesying, let him use it in proportion to his faith.
If it is serving, let him serve; if it is teaching, let him teach;
if it is encouraging, let him encourage; if it is contributing to the needs of others, let him give generously; if it is leadership, let him govern diligently; if it is showing mercy, let him do it cheerfully.
God has blessed our schools with "quiet angels", those saints who volunteer and do work that is rarely recognized. Most of these folks don't want recognition; they do what they do for the Lord and to bless the school that they love.
I suggest that you take some time out of your schedule to thank and celebrate the good gifts that are being used for the Kingdom building at your school. This is an important stewardship effort even if it is difficult to value in dollars.
As you are having these discussions, why not ask a few questions? In your own words, of course.
1. How or why did you come to volunteer?
2. What is it about the school that keeps you coming back? This is especially true of the volunteers who no longer have children in the school.
3. Are we utilizing your gifts as you would like for us to?
4. Are there other areas of the school in which you would like to participate?
5. Are we grateful receivers of your generous giving?
And, praise the Lord with them that He has moved in the hearts of His people to steward this portion of their gifts.
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