Pastor’s Notes
April 2014
During the sermon beginning our series on “Faith” several weeks ago, I brought forward a vision to utilize building funds for two purposes: construction of facilities to meet our future needs and direct support of a new missions work. On April 27th, during our regular monthly business meeting, we will conduct a discussion session regarding these two items. It is an opportunity to talk about what God is leading us to do with the funds which have been faithfully given for many years and over which He has given us stewardship. If you are a church member, I invite you to participate in this discussion. My hope is that we will be able to determine a course of action to forward to the Future Planning Committee for further research and refinement.
In anticipation of that discussion time, please allow me to further clarify the vision so that we’re on the same page as we move forward. There are several key parameters that need to be stated so our conversation may be more production. Regarding any future building, it must:
• meet future needs – we must take a “long view” of building, not just addressing immediate needs, but the needs of future generations to follow. Our church’s vision has been expressed in how our current sanctuary and office facilities are built. In that regard, we need to discuss that vision and address whether existing plans are sufficient
• be built with existing funds – in other words, no debt. Through the blessings God has given each of us, our building fund is in great shape. We have sufficient funds to move forward. Likewise, we need to work within the scope of the funds available. This should also guide our discussion.
• serve multiple purposes – we must have facilities that can serve a variety of purposes, some we know now, some that may be revealed in future days.
• be built with stewardship in mind – advances in technology that result in long-term maintenance savings (such as in heating and cooling) must be considered for the sake of long-term stewardship.
• be built with consensus – I have no illusions about building: it takes time and hard work. Our church body needs to be working with one mind if we are to move forward. We must carefully weigh options in prayer and considerate discussion. If we are not of one mind regarding such a large step of faith, we must work toward reaching agreement so that hearts and minds are clear as we move forward, seeking God’s will for the future of His church.
Friends and family, God has incredible days ahead for His church. We must be aligned with His will for His people, His church. Buildings are important, but they are not truly what we’re about. They are not “the church.” They are tools for the church. How we move forward in faith and love in our discussions will speak volumes – it is a kind of fruit of our faith, no matter what steps God has for us in coming days.
Our mission always remains: to make disciples as we go, teaching all that Jesus commands.
Bro. Jim
