Foundation to the Future

If you were in worship on Sunday the 7th, you were introduced to Rev. Jerry Cleveland (click here to listen to his message). Jerry is a dedicated servant of the Lord, committed to helping congregations like ours achieve their stewardship goals. His gifts and skills will be assisting us over the course of the next several months to reduce our debt on our marvelous building addition and renovation from six years ago. Over the next several weeks, I encourage you to read a series of emails from Jerry that is designed to remind us of the spiritual aspects of such an effort.

I think you’ll find Jerry’s message below to be informational and uplifting. I look forward to growing in our faithfulness with you as we “celebrate our journey together.”

Rev. Matt Nieman

Message from Jerry Cleveland

Several months ago your Session engaged me as your consultant for your next capital stewardship campaign … what has now been named “Celebrating Our Journey Together.” What an awesome responsibility and privilege! I have met and begun work with a leadership group of about 45 of you, and I can already see the excitement and momentum building.

A few days ago it was my distinct honor to speak about our directions and purposes as we travel through this adventure. Many of you were present, and thank you for the kind and supportive words about the message. Over the next few weeks, in some small “sound bites” through the miracle of email I want to continue the themes we have introduced. By the way, if you did not get a chance to hear the sermon I believe that it is available as a podcast on your website.

The most important thing I can reiterate from the message is that THIS JOURNEY MUST BE ABOUT GOD (not money). I said in my remarks that each of us must make a “spiritual decision,” not a financial decision. Will finances ultimately be involved? Of course. But whatever amount we give, or if we even give at all, will simply be a reflection of what God is doing or wanting to do in our lives to grow us spiritually.

With that in mind I am going to suggest a simple prayer. It goes like this …

“God, what are you wanting to do through me (or through my family) to accomplish Your purposes, in this, Your church?”

Would you commit yourself to pray this prayer consistently between now and Celebration Sunday (May 2nd)? Would you pray every time God brings it to your mind? And then would you simply be obedient to however God answers that prayer in your life? His answers might include that you get on one of the campaign teams … or that you attend certain meetings and events … or that, yes, you commit to a certain dollar amount (eventually). Or of course anything else God says to your heart.

Ultimately we give out information that helps each person or family quantify whatever God is saying to them, but for now we just begin the journey with God. I believe you will find it exciting, challenging, and even life-changing. Attempting to walk-in-step with God is always those things and more.

That’s all I ask for now … just sincerely pray that prayer as often as you can … and of course, listen very carefully as to how God begins to answer that prayer in your hearts.

Jerry

(A listing of our leadership team is available in our Church Events section)