“You’ve never preached a sermon like that before,” was the feedback from numerous people as I greeted worshippers exiting the auditorium on Sunday morning. It was not said in criticism or disdain, and further conversation revealed that it was intended as a compliment. We are not in the habit of asking God’s people for money from the pulpit, as money is not what defines us. Yet here we are at a place to which God has brought us – on the precipice of an expansion project for the growth of the ministry.
So much good is going on within and around the community of grace; God is drawing people to Himself, lives are being transformed, hearts and minds of the young and the seasoned are being discipled, counseling is a staple of the ministry, bonding, community, and service are characteristics of our care groups. What is untold is how often seeds of truth are planted in conversations, through acts of service and kindness, times of hospitality, and redemptive encounters. The need is clear, and the church has asserted that our facilities need to be expanded.
So, the preaching on God’s work of grace in the outpouring of generosity (2 Corinthians 8:1-9) seems fitting for the occasion – the launch of Growing Grace. It was a good launch! There is a strong sense of appreciation for our approach and the spirit with which we embark. There is enthusiasm – with Max Floyd leading out front – as we are called to participate in contributing to the needs of the family of Grace.
We are delighted that at the launch of Growing Grace we were able to report that we have already attained 18% of the goal! The goal of one million dollars was set from the date that the church voted to proceed with the expansion project. So the percentage already received toward the stated goal represents the contributions received since September 7th. Indeed, contributions have been credited to the building fund for a good amount of time before then, but the goal that was communicated was determined by the funds already on hand at the time of the decision to move forward.
Through this whole year of Growing Grace, we will be up-front, transparent, and open to your input and inquiries. We will give regular progress reports on the second Sunday of every month, and we will be equitable in our appeals and encouragements to contribute. We do not want this event to define us, but we also want to be intentionally good stewards of that to which our Father has called us as a family. In other words, we don’t want to inundate you with appeals to the point that your eyes gloss over, but we also want you to keep this in mind.
I am certain – as God’s Spirit works among us – that there will be numerous stories to tell. With appropriate permission, let me begin with this account of God’s grace. One particular family had committed to give a particular amount to Growing Grace. Subsequently to their resolve, their income was put on hold due to the Government shutdown. But launch day came, and the family chose to give as they had committed to. They gave with joy, and with gratitude for the ways that God had provided for them through His family. This is the grace of God at work. This is 2 Corinthians 8:2!
So let us rejoice, and let us earnestly and continually pray the we will live open-handedly, trusting that He will provide.
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