Let’s start with this:
And go to this.
The greatest gift given to any single community is the people. Yes, money is given. Yes, things (resources, clothing, food, etc) is given. But all of these pale in comparison to the individuals that He has brought to your community at any given time.
This has some implications.
This implies that model of “speak on money, and people will give” method is broken. This implies that Churches need not speak on the financial aspect of worship. Although I strongly believe this is a part of worship, the people are worth more than the money and God has given you everything you need to get the job he’s asking you to do…already. You have the money to do what He’s asking. Lean into that trust.
This also implies that we, as leaders, need to treat our people differently. The non-church attending community seems to be screaming silently that they’re not attending because they feel treated like a cog in the wheel. They are not a person, they are a thing. God has brought very specific people into your life and as leaders, it is our responsibility to listen closely to the people around us. This is where God is speaking. Lean into that ear.
I am angry. I am frustrated. I am seeking. I am wound up. These emotions are from what I see around me. I feel like Paul screaming at Peter but am torn because voicing my grievances makes me more divisive and not more inclusive.
I am lonely. I am disappointed. I am impatient. I am drowning. These emotions are from what I see inside of me. I feel like I’ve left an umbrella of protection, my home and community, and the “real” world is killing me. . My heart is hurting and I feel my chin dropping.
Jeremiah 29:11. Life boat.
I speak with conviction that you and your wife need to come home : )
Seriously…our basement is open. Ya know?