Perspectives with David S. Bell

Pastors: Pay Attention to Penn State

2011-11-11T15:51:59Z

The recent events involving the abrupt dismissal of two Penn State leaders – Joe Paterno, the iconic head football coach, and Graham Spanier, the seasoned university president – should cause most non-profit leaders to review their own practices. Even as I write this blog, I am certain that more news will be forthcoming from State College, Pennsylvania. I am not focusing on the particulars of the allegations that led to the sequence of successive events. Likewise, I do not seek to debate the coaching tenure of JoPa. However, I do note the uncanny connection between a few PowerPoint slides that I routinely discuss in a pastoral leadership seminar and the apparent unraveling of Penn State’s leaders.

The connection is simply this statement: Adhering to moral, legal, and fiduciary responsibility is among the hallmarks of leadership integrity. Pastors, like it or not, are the administrative officers of a non-profit corporation. This office – not to mention one’s call and ordination or commissioning as a pastor – obligates one to conduct one’s self in accordance with the church’s governing policies. Leaders bear fiduciary responsibility to assure to the absolute best of their ability that the organizational policies, the governing rules, the denominational church law, and, of course, state and federal law are being followed. If not, appropriate action is required.

Too often, I have experienced pastors being swayed by the winds of church politics, the need for self-acceptance, the desire to avoid conflict, or the fear of disenfranchising a long-time constituent. This pressure can result in a neglect of moral, legal, and fiduciary responsibility. In other words, some outside influence or internal compulsion takes precedence over this responsibility. Or, maybe leaders just are not as vigilant to this responsibility as boards of directors, courts, or donors believe they should be.

Where do I see the breakdown? Because of my high involvement with organizational fund development and financial practices, I typically note the gap in these two areas. When the pastor observes or learns about a gap between the financial practices and the policies, the pastor, at minimum, has a moral and fiduciary responsibility to report the gap and to pursue corrective action. Let’s consider a few typical examples. The treasurer pays general operating expenses from a donor-restricted fund. The endowment committee negates its socially responsible investing requirement. One person counts the Sunday morning cash contributions. An annual financial review is not completed. An operating budget is not established. The list could go on and on. . . .

Routine time spent in assuring that the financial practices and donor care reflect the church’s policies and directives may not seem like the job of a pastor. At first glance, they may not seem to connect to spiritual matters. It surely is not most pastors’ passion. But, then again, a football coach’s responsibility is about far more than winning football games. Adhering to moral, legal, and fiduciary responsibility is among the hallmarks of leadership integrity.

Inviting Generosity One Lunch at a Time

2011-09-17T02:16:29Z

A well-known political commentator was invited to lunch by a billionaire corporate leader. The commentator was anxious about the lunch meeting. He pondered the anticipated conversation. He wondered where they might dine – what food they might eat. The venue was a far constant from what he had conjured in his mind. They met at a hospital cafeteria. Their lunch conversation was interrupted sporadically by staff and family members of patients. The commentator observed that the billionaire offered compassion and a “Christ-like” spirit as he engaged with people.

The lunch was followed by a tour of the hospital. The tour was also peppered with sidebar conversations between the wealthy host and patients, family members, and staff, alike. One man sobbed expressing appreciation for the care of this hospital and the billionaire’s generosity to it. The tour ended with the lunch host inviting the political commentator to be a donor to the hospital foundation. The commentator was so moved that instead of just wanting to be a donor, he inquired, “Can you teach me how to die broke and help others in the process?”

The reply: “That’s a deal I can make!”

As I read this true story in a magazine focused toward high-powered executives, I was immediately reminded of John Wesley, the founder of Methodism. The contrast between a wealthy, modern-day CEO and the scholarly, pietistic preacher of social justice is vast. Yet, this story seemed to raise some comparisons. One of Wesley’s financial goals was to die penniless having helped others throughout life. Wesley demonstrated phenomenal generosity. Wesley called us to give all we can. A steward lifestyle is advocated throughout the Old and New Testaments. Financial giving is a serious responsibility of the committed Christian – not to give what we do not possess, but to give generously from those assets that we have acquired.

Yet, how often has the cultivation of financial generosity been sidelined in the church? How often do we decide to lead a “soft” annual campaign? How often do we make excuses for people’s apparent inability to give? How often do we ignore planned giving? How often do we deny the competitive nature of charitable giving? How often do we simply not ask? I know far too often!

As a result of our inaction, the remainder of the charitable world ends up informing donors, and frankly many avid churchgoers, about the theology of generosity. Here are six key steps to place financial generosity back on the playing field of discipleship:

1. Know the values, mission, and vision of the church
2. Tell stories over and over again of changed lives as a result of ministry
3. Overcome the fear of money talk in the church
4. Develop abiding relationships with potential major donors
5. Personally invite people to support ministry with a financial commitment
6. Thank donors routinely for their contributions and gifts

The results may surprise you. People are seeking opportunities to give. You might find people willing to give at unprecedented levels – maybe even some people who strive to die broke while helping others in the name of God. It may seem outlandish, but it would not be the first time that someone was willing to give it all for the sake of helping others. Jesus did it. Early church founders strove for it. A political commentator is learning how to do it. What about you?

Charitable Giving Rising After Economic Recession

2011-06-21T13:14:06Z

Charitable giving is on the rise after a sharp fall during the economic recession according to a well-respected source and another major study – Giving USA Foundation and a survey by Cygnus Applied Research, respectively.* Overall charitable giving increased in 2010 over 2009 by 2.1 percent in inflation adjusted dollars. Moreover, four out of five donors anticipate contributing the same amount or more in 2011 than in 2010. Only 7 percent intend to decrease giving this year, compared to 17 percent in 2009. In addition, people who are “actively religious” give far more than other segments of the population. For example, the survey finds that actively religious young adults under age 35 contributed five times more to charities than those young adults who were not active in a faith community.

It is imperative for ministry leaders to pay attention to those issues that impact donors when they consider giving. These issues include the faith-based organization’s reputation, measurable results, and donor appreciation. A good reputation is a key reason that people support a charity throughout the years. Building a well-respected staff and strong volunteer leadership team over the long-term is essential to the financial health of the ministry. The consistency of this solid reputation matters more than most others factors in securing major gifts.

People are very interested in the outcomes of their financial support. Donors are highly engaged in learning the ways in which real dollars impact a community through ministry. Stories of changed lives demonstrate these measurable results perhaps better than any other information. Most charities are quick to thank their donors in personal ways. The culture of showing appreciation to donors is now pervasive in the charitable world. Ranging from hand-written thank you notes to personal visits to invitations to special events, fundraisers are working hard to make sure donors realize how grateful they are for people’s generosity. As this level of response is raised, people’s expectations also rise. Thus, those faith-based organizations that are finding creative ways to express appreciation are positioned well to be the recipient of increased giving.

Most revealing in the recent study by Cygnus Applied Research is the surge in online giving. A majority of every age segment indicated that they would consider making a gift online – marking the first time that more than half of those over age 65 said that they would give via the Internet. 75 percent of people between age 35 and 64 were favorable to online giving, and a huge 86 percent of the under 35 crowd prefer to give online.

Initially, I was a bit skeptical of some of the survey results. Faith-based organizations and churches often seem far removed from the traditional charitable world. Do these findings really have any bearing on us? I have learned from experience over the years that they very much do. Worship attendees do not make the clean distinction between the church, faith-based ministries, and all other non-profit organizations. When people consider charitable giving, the distinction in their mind is not nearly as clear between the church and non-church organizations.

So, what are we to do? How do we react to information like that shared in these research findings? I do not believe we should ignore them or discredit them. We might embrace the research, learn from its findings, and seek to tweak, or in some cases overhaul, our fund development practices. However, we have a higher calling ultimately. Our goal is not simply to secure larger charitable gifts. We are called to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world.

The responsibility is on us as Christian leaders to teach biblical stewardship, to grow financial discipleship. We are to nurture the spiritual gift of generosity as Paul lists in Romans. We are to teach the principles of tithing. We are to remind people that all we have is a gift from God. We are to create a culture of generosity that pervades all of our community. We are to cultivate effective year-round, holistic stewardship ministries. We are to teach children about being a steward of the Kingdom. When we are engaged actively in these stewardship ministries, we truly distinguish ourselves from all of the other organizations soliciting funds. We are distinct first and foremost because of the call of God in our lives to share generously, to practice tithing, and to give as a response to God’s goodness.

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*Portions of this article are based on the research findings of Cygnus Applied Research, as reported in The Chronicle of Philanthropy, Volume XXIII, No. 12, May 5, 2011.

On Being Old Fashioned

2011-05-28T14:29:56Z

During a recent presentation at a national conference, I was approached by a young adult who was interested in additional information about the generosity trends among different generations. She provided me with a few ways to deliver the information to her, one of which was “old fashioned e-mail.” For me, postal mail, often termed “snail mail,” is bordering on old fashioned. She did not even mention this option. I spend hours each day communicating through e-mail to pastors and organizational leaders. While I know that younger generations consider e-mail passé, I was quite struck during this conversation with a young adult when she associated e-mail with a rather archaic form of communication.

The conversation was so fitting for the moment – a workshop on differences in generational giving. I had talked all the way through the various differences, but this brief post workshop conversation and my startled response were clear indicators to me that I, too, am from a different generation than Generation X or Y. A natural sense of discomfort exists between some generational practices. Thus, it is not surprising that the perspective of one generation may be viewed with a sense of anxiety, or perhaps even criticism, by another generation.

Do you notice some of these generational differences in your church or ministry organization? They may appear in conversations over worship, music, facility usage, communication, evangelism – in fact, just about any area of ministry. And, yes, giving! I admire those persons who can at least understand and maybe practice the trends of other generations. Certainly, I am not implying that these trends are so well-established that fluidity does not occur between generations. For instance, multi-generations may be found in most contemporary worship services. Yet, generations do have their preferences or leanings.

In the area of giving, younger generations have strong preference for electronic giving. We are experiencing a great transition from a cash society to a cash-less society. More and more financial transactions are being completed electronically. Electronic banking and purchasing are the vastly preferred methods for adults among the youngest of baby boomers and younger. It is only natural that their preferred method of giving is also electronic. Electronic fund transfer (EFT,) giving kiosks, online giving, all meet the needs of these younger generations. Interestingly, as churches have launched these electronic methods of giving, another generation has been among the early adopters – those between 62 and 70 years old. Why might these people sign-up? Answer – Social Security. Social Security payments are deposited electronically. These newly retired adults are learning to trust and to use electronic banking more than those generations sandwiched between them and the younger generations.

One common objection to electronic giving is the lack of involvement with the worshipful act of placing a gift in the offering plate and presenting it to God. I completely concur that giving is an act of worship. A logical solution might be to create a giving card that indicates a gift has been made through another means of giving. A worshipper may place this reusable card in the offering plate. Several people may be able to place this card in the plate – not just those people signed-up for EFT. For instance, the monthly check writer or the annual stock transferee may also benefit from using this card as a means to participate in the offering.

Here are some practical suggestions for material to be included on a giving card:

"I/We generously support the ministry of [name] Church. [OR] I/We practice the spiritual discipline of giving. [OR] I/We believe that all we have is a gift from God. We are called to give proportionately to God through this ministry. [OR] We practice tithing or are working toward tithing. [AND INCLUDE] Our financial gift for this ministry is given electronically [You could also include: "by a monthly check or another means"]

Include a scripture statement about giving

Include the basics, like church name, etc.

If you would like to have a conversation with me about generations and generosity, feel free to use any “old fashioned” method of communication that you prefer, but here’s a link to my contact page and Facebook page! I’ll respond accordingly!

Where There's A Will, There's A Way!

2011-05-28T14:13:56Z

During this past month, I have been leading a number of estate and gift planning seminars. As I have spoken with individuals after each of these presentations, I am convinced more than ever that people, in general, are procrastinators when it comes to estate planning. According to a 2010 survey by Lawyers.com, two-thirds of Americans have no will. I believe it! Repeatedly, people approach me after these seminars to admit embarrassingly that they have no estate plan – no advance directives, no last will and testament. I have meet elderly widows, single parents, middle-aged couples, parents of young children, senior adults – all of them with no will. Are you among them? Then, read on.

People often assume that if they are not wealthy, they do not need a will. They consider creating an estate plan to be an unnecessary expense. In essence, everyone does have a will – either by design or by default. Either you have taken the time to design a proper will and specify the eventual distribution of your property or you are relying on the impersonal state laws that define how assets are to be distributed when no will exists.

So, what are the consequences of not having a will? The probate court appoints an administrator of your estate, names guardians for surviving minor children, and disperses your property. The court will oversee many other provisions that are enforceable in the absence of a will. Estate administration costs are normally higher for probated estates without a will.

A will actually encourages good stewardship. Using your will power encourages you to be a steward of your assets.

A will is one of the only ways to convey your personal wishes for distributing your property to loved ones.
A will permits you to select a personal representative in whom you have confidence.
A will gives you the opportunity to name the guardians of your children.
A will leads to a more efficient process with the probate court and Internal Revenue Service.
A will allows you to name specific beneficiaries, including your family, your church, and other charitable organizations.
A will enables you to choose your own trustee or qualified organization to oversee the financial management of your estate.

While a will is a fundamental document, several other documents might be considered as primary components of an estate plan. These documents may include: a living will with a patient advocate designation and an authorization under HIPAA, a general durable power of attorney, a letter of instruction, a living or revocable trust, and life and long-term care insurance.

A charitable gift to your church or other non-profit organization may also be included in your will. Charitable gifts made upon death are the most popular type of gift from accumulated assets. These gifts are often referred to as “bequests.” They are so popular because a bequest gives you the opportunity to leave a lasting legacy while retaining full use of your property during your life.

If your organization would like is interested in learning more about planned giving techniques or promotion, feel free to contact me. And, most importantly, if you do not have a will, I urge you to establish one for the sake of those whom you love.

Stewards in an Unexpected Place: A Personal Story

2010-11-14T15:46:00Z

I find tremendous examples of stewardship and fundraising in all kinds of places. Recently, I encountered great stewards (and fundraisers, too) on a somewhat remote beach on a rainy Saturday morning. Here’s the story.

I recently presented at a conference sponsored by the Ecumenical Stewardship Center for North American stewardship and fundraising leaders. This conference is held annually at a Florida beach destination. It has been held the past two years in Marco Island. Fortunately, my family accompanied me on this trip. I heard from another conference attendee that Tigertail Beach, located a few miles away from our conference hotel, was an excellent shelling area. We did not find time all week to drive to this beach. However, we had a few extra minutes on the morning of our departure. My daughter and I decided to visit this somewhat remote beach. We intended to go shelling for only a few minutes since rain clouds were looming. Plus, we needed to finish packing.

Upon our arrival, more people were at the beach than we anticipated. We soon discovered this particular Saturday morning was a scheduled beach clean-up time. We passed by several locals, but were stopped at the registration area for the clean-up event. Three local women were seated behind the registration table. They represented the Friends of Tigertail Beach, Inc., the non-profit organization hosting the clean-up efforts. The women asked if we were there to help. I knew that we only had a few minutes, so I mentioned that we were just visiting and leaving soon. They encouraged all the more. I told them that we would be on the lookout for debris, but we came mainly as tourists.

As we wandered the beach, our eyes gazed through the shallow waters, the squishy sand, and the mangrove edges searching primarily for shells and then for trash. We did find some shells, like the many we had seen on the beach near our hotel. Then, we found various items of trash. Honestly, as we walked longer, it was the trash, like a fabulous pair of jeweled sandals (or were those barnacle-covered flip-flops?), that captured more and more of our attention and imagination. How were these sandals lost? Who was wearing them? Where were they lost? Oh, the imaginative stories that a dad and his daughter can create! Beside the stories, we talked about environmental stewardship – caring for God’s creation. It was a hands-on teaching moment that parents too often miss. I took full advantage. We placed the sandals along with other debris in someone else's garbage bag and headed back to the parking lot. It was time for us to depart.

As we walked back, I thought about these women. I knew that we would see them again. I could now walk by them with my guilt relieved. Yes, I was feeling slightly guilty for telling them earlier that we were just there to take from the beach as tourists, instead of give back. After spotting those sandals, we became more than tourists. We helped clean up the beach. We were . . . well, stewards. I could tell the women that we had done our part.

Sure enough, they were there! Despite the rain clouds, the women were still on the boardwalk. I mentioned to them that we had cleaned up the beach area where we had walked. They immediately thanked both of us. Actually, they politely thanked me and fussed over my daughter. My daughter signed the registration book at their request. The women inquisitively asked us a few questions. One woman, a Board member named Susan, rooted through a notebook and found a certificate of appreciation to present to my daughter. Then, another woman took our picture and told us it would be posted on their website. Sure enough, it is! (See Dec. 5 Clean-Up Volunteers' Photo.)

In between this scurry of activity, each of them pitched their organization. They shared information about children’s educational events, quarterly clean-up days, environmental conservation, the osprey nests, and on and on. Most of all, they shared their passion for this organization and their gratitude for us helping in a very small way to achieve a part of their larger mission. Before our final goodbye, I was handed a pink, two-sided pamphlet. It was a membership application to the Friends of Tigertail Beach, Inc.

It was just a last minute decision to go on a short excursion to a beach tucked at the end of a dead end street. Yet, it’s one of the most memorable experiences from attending a four day professional conference on fund development and stewardship!

Here are some of the stewardship lessons:

 Stewardship happens primarily at the grassroots level.

 Stewardship is about so much more than money.

 People need to be invited to be a steward.

 Being a steward is a gift.

 Giving is a freeing experience.

 Stewards encourage others to become stewards.

 Stewardship is hard to teach, but easy to learn through a focused, hands-on life experience.

 People like to give and to make a difference for others.

 Stewardship is a lifestyle choice.

 Great stewards are interspersed throughout all generations.

 People seek opportunities to serve more than just themselves.

Here are some of the fundraising lessons:

 Initial rejection from a potential donor may result in a positive outcome.

 Personal gestures of thanks, no matter how minimal the gift, are critical.

 Special recognition for first time contributors is essential.

 The organization’s mission needs to be clear and concise.

 Board members’ passion stimulates donors’ generosity.

 Everyone affiliated with the organization needs to know the case statement.

 Donor cultivation requires taking the time to become well acquainted with major donors and potential donors, alike.

 Giving is typically an emotional response.

 Several persons other than the development staff are capable of cultivating donors and asking for contributions.

 Accurate records are imperative to most funding efforts.

 Written information should be given to potential donors for a deferred response.

 Asking for a financial commitment is fundamental to receiving a financial gift.

Granted, these lists certainly are not exhaustive for creating stewards or cultivating donors, especially in a faith-based context. However, faith-based organizations often operate out of such financial dysfunction or are so reluctant to develop a clear mission or ask for financial support that a lesson as practical as this life experience is a good one. These stewardship and fundraising lessons will serve most of our faith communities very well. I am reminded, and hopefully you are, too, of the important opportunities that we have to ask boldly for financial gifts and to embrace a life of generosity, hope, and passion.

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The Question of Childhood Curiosity

2010-11-14T15:32:00Z

When I was a young child, I would often ask “Why?” Even before my parents could answer this question, I was ready to ask my second question. Do you know the second question? If you have raised children or spent much time with them, then I am certain that you do know it. The second question was: “Why?” Whatever my parents’ answer, my follow-up question was always, “Why?” My own children have blessed me with this same level of curiosity.

“Daddy, I have a question for you. . . Why are there clouds in the sky?”

“Clouds are in the sky because today is a partly cloudy day,” I respond.

“Why?” says the young child.

“Today is partly cloudy because of the changing weather. This changing weather is called a ‘weather front.’”

“Why?” says the child routinely.

“When the winds blow, water molecules form together and make clouds. There are different types of cloud formations. . .”

“Why?”

This sequence continues until eventually the adult ends exasperated with frustration exclaiming, “Because that’s the way it is!” or pronouncing with theological delight “Because God made the Heavens and the Earth!”

Jim Collins, author of Built to Last, has taken this basic childhood question of curiosity and leveraged it as a powerful method for achieving the essence of an organization’s purpose. The method can be practiced at its elemental level. Start with the descriptive statement of what your church does. Why is this statement important? Ask leaders the why question five times. As one repeats the question and digs deeper into the reasoning for doing what the church does, one approaches the fundamental purpose of a particular local church. The five whys can enable the church to frame its tasks and activities in a more meaningful way.

I was privileged to spend time recently with a few of the current great thinkers and strong leaders of the Church. They have all contributed significantly to the ecumenical movement of today’s Church. Their books are widely acclaimed. They represent multiple generations of the Church. They hold different roles within the Church. Yet, as I listened and talked with each of them, each one began at the same place. They started with the mission of the Church. In order to have a meaningful conversation about the Church, we needed to be clear about its purpose, core values, and mission. They encouraged persons, like me, who consult regularly with leaders of faith-based organizations, like you, to ask you again and again, “Why do you exist? What is the purpose of your organization? Who would miss your organization if it closed? Who is excited that your organization is open? How does your ministry connect with God’s wider mission in the world?”

Your answers to these questions and to the five whys have more to do with the stewardship of our prayers, presence, gifts, witness, and service than we may first think. It may seem cliché – but it is true – money follows mission. May God be with you as you reengage your childhood curiosity.

Going in Ovals: Reflections on the Indy 500

2010-05-29T01:39:00Z

I have visited the Indianapolis Motor Speedway a couple of times during my life, but never when a racing car was buzzing around the track – at least, not until now. A couple of weeks ago, I attended a few hours of the Indianapolis 500 Opening Day. It was a last minute decision during a few free hours prior to flying on to another city. I had no idea what to anticipate.

I was amazed at the close access fans had to the pit area, the track, and the drivers and crews. I could walk just about anywhere in the public areas. The track appeared vast. The bleachers and stands looked like they could accommodate several hundred thousand people; yet, only a few thousand people were strolling around the grounds on opening day. The announcer’s voice chattered deeply over the loud speakers. The voices of concessioners could be heard as I strolled around the inside center track area. People stood quietly hoping to see a race car driver and perhaps ask for an autograph. Whistles blew as security guards protected fans while crews driving and riding on electric carts carrying tires and supplies zipped through the middle of pedestrian areas. However, no sound overshadowed the roar of the race car engine or the buzz of the Indy car dashing by at 224 MPH (360 KPH.)

It was a thrilling experience. Sure, I thought about the consumption of fossil fuels, the emissions pollutions, and these type of concerns. But, I must admit – in the moment, the vibration of the engine and the speed of an Indy car was exhilarating.

On opening day, most cars only went around the track one or two times. Then, as the car came to an abrupt stop in the pits, engineers efficiently stripped the body away from the car and ran tests, studied configurations, and adjusted, if ever so slightly, mechanisms. It appeared to be a system of striving for perfection. In its simplest form, the engineers were hoping that their ingenuity would enable the car and driver to go around in circles (or actually ovals) faster than any other car and driver combination. Their ultimate destination on race day is to be first to the finish line – which, allow me to state, is still just a point on the oval track. These racing teams often spend their careers and their best skill to achieve the goal of the cars going faster and more efficiently around the track. Oversimplified? Yes! I mean no disrespect to the race car industry.

I departed the Indy Motor Speedway and drove my rental car a few miles to the airport. I then boarded a plane and flew in it from the Midwest to the Northeast. In my rental car and plane rides, I had travelled well over 500 miles. As I rode on the airplane, I thought about destinations. This weekend, Indy cars will travel 500 miles only to arrive at almost the same point on the oval track as they started. Well, not all of them. Some cars may have engine failure; others may crash. Everyone will not complete the race. The cars will be as perfected as possible; the drivers as mentally prepared as possible; the crews as conditioned as possible.

I wonder how many faith-based organizations and churches spend most of their systemic energy, their best talent, and their major funding trying to perfect their system, but really only travel in circles or ovals. The staff and volunteers may end up so focused on perfecting the organization that they lose sight of the destination or they misinterpret the true destination. The vision for an organization is certainly not to end up where it began. It is not to go around the same track again and again. Our vision should point to reaching a different place than where we began. The vision is seldom actualized by driving in circles or in a straight line, for that matter. Moving toward the vision will have curves and bumps. It may require repositioning, intermittent assessment, and maybe even completely new parts. Ultimately, our vision should be pointing to God’s call for our ministry.

I encourage you:

To step back from the pit area of your church or faith-based organization
To examine the whole, not just the individual parts, of your church or faith-based organization
To be certain that the start and finish line are not one in the same
To make sure that the goal is not limited to going faster and faster with greater efficiency
To utilize the best talent of your staff and volunteers to work toward the vision
To prayerfully consider the identified destination making sure it leads to God’s call
And, finally, to maintain your personal exhilaration as your church or faith-based organization strives for vitality and relevance in today’s fast paced world.

Serves As . . .

2010-05-01T01:47:00Z

A corporate executive read my personal bio as he waited for a meeting to begin. He stopped midway through the first sentence which began, “David S. Bell serves as a Senior Partner with Design Group International™.” He reread it and looked puzzled.

He said, “That’s an odd way to say what your title is.”

“Serves as,” he mumbled. “Why not just ‘is’? In the corporate world you would just say, ‘is a senior partner;’ never ‘serves as.’”

Personally, I have read many introductions that state the person serves as . . . a pastor, a caretaker, an executive director, or some other title. I had never given it much thought. We went on to have a very productive meeting. I have exchanged e-mails back and forth with him for a few months. He has never mentioned this initial stumbling since our first time together. His corporate world has been expanded to understand more of the non-profit world; vice-versa for me.

Driving away from his corporate office tower, I thought about the contrast between stating that “I serve as” vs. “I am.” I remembered a book that I had read in college. In 1983, Robert Greenleaf wrote Servant Leadership: A Journey into the Nature of Legitimate Power and Greatness. It has proven to be a timeless resource for those who lead. Interestingly, the topic of servant leadership has turned into a big business.

Serving is a core principle of being a steward. Serving implies that one is acting on behalf of, in partnership with, or in the best interest of another. Serving requires humbleness. As Christian leaders, we are called to serve others in the name of Jesus Christ. Servant leaders can be bold, prophetic, ambitious, decisive, savvy, and all of the other qualities that we may associate with great leaders, including corporate ones. However, servant leaders demonstrate a deeper core value that undergirds their leadership approach – namely, recognizing their role as a steward or a trustee. Servant leaders realize that they are one person in a larger system. The entire system does not revolve around them. This realization is tremendously freeing. It frees one from the burden, or the false impression, of believing that everything relies on one’s own ability.

We have witnessed the negative consequences of leaders believing that they can go it alone, be exempt from the rules, or are justified in their self-righteousness. The leaders whom I consider great all embody a principle of service, more specifically Christian service, inherent in their leadership style. They are in service first to God out of recognition that life is a gift from God. After all, God is the great I AM. (Exodus 3:14 ) As Christian leaders, we are called to serve and to be a steward of, the One who was, is, and forever shall be the only one who can claim, “I am. . .”

An Easter Stewardship Celebration

2010-03-27T02:40:00Z

Easter provides a great opportunity to celebrate stewardship. Why?

Easter is one of the poignant displays of God's giving to us. We have a tremendous opportunity to respond to this gift by offering ourselves - our prayers, presence, gifts, witness, and service - to God. Some scholars might suggest that Easter is the defining moment of God's ceaseless ability to give. God gave Jesus, God's own son, who died on a cross for our sake - yours and mine - for the forgiveness of sins and the gift of everlasting life. Frankly, the Bible is sprinkled - no saturated - with stories of God's ability to give and give and give. The Creation Story, Noah and the Flood, the Ten Commandments, the Birth Narrative of Jesus, and the Woman at the Well are among a few of these biblical depictions of God giving to us throughout the generations.

I believe that we have a responsibility and an opportunity during this season of Easter to remind people that we are called to share with God by sharing with one another the bounty of God's gifts in our own lives. However, consider what God might be calling you to give before you start reminding others of this responsibility or inviting them to consider this invitation. God might be calling you to spend more time to your children. God might be calling you to renew your own body through a Sabbath retreat. God might be calling you to serve on a mission work team. God might be calling you to invite a friend to church, or to lead a prayer team, or to volunteer at a homeless shelter, or to get out of debt, or to consider a major financial gift, or to reach out to a friend.

If you're not sure where your opportunity lies, stay alert! I'm confident that an opportunity to be a steward in the name of the One who died for us will arise along your Easter journey.

Two Key Questions Arising from Our Generous Response to the Haiti Earthquake

2010-02-10T17:49:00Z

The outpouring of generosity to organizations providing assistance in Haiti is inspiring. People across all generations seem to have some knowledge of this devastating earthquake. Some organizations are wondering how this apparent mass appeal of providing relief and recovery to Haitians is going to impact giving to their charitable cause. Typically, our collective attention span for disaster response is relatively short. Media sources will confirm this opinion. Charities that are involved in the long-term relief efforts of a disaster state that they must raise most of their funds for this relief effort during the earlier stages of the disaster rescue. So, its long-term impact may not be great.

However, our financial generosity has caused me to reflect on a couple of questions.

In the immediacy of this natural disaster, people are highly motivated to give to this effort. In fact, they may make some value judgments about organizations based on the charity’s link to providing disaster response in Haiti. So, question #1: Has your organization provided a means for people to contribute to the disaster response effort in Haiti? If so, consider how many different opportunities and methods of giving have been offered. More methods and opportunities to give (like donating supplies, contributing money, volunteering, praying, etc.) will lead to a perceived greater connection between your organization and involvement in grassroots ministry. This connection will result in a positive attitude about your organization and a desire to support it.

The first question may be very obvious and will probably meet with minimal resistance from leaders. Now let’s consider the second question. Question #2: Is it easy for people to contribute financially to the ministry of your local church? Your first response may be an immediate, "Yes." In fact, you may think that I’m asking a senseless question.

"Of course, it is easy to give," you say. "We pass the offering plate every week."

Every person who attends worship can place cash or a check in the offering plate. How much easier could it be? Let’s take a closer look!

Ease in giving is one of the major factors donors site as a reason that impacts their decision whether or not to contribute to a charity. In recent weeks, the disparity between the ease of giving to the local church vs. the ease of giving to other charities rarely has been greater. The major giving phenomena that we have witnessed in response to the earthquake in Haiti – namely, millions of dollars being given in $10 increments by sending a text message – is a poignant example of this divergence between traditional methods of giving in the church and innovative fund development in the charitable community.

Placing a contribution in the offering plate requires one to attend worship. Some studies suggest that even regular worship attendees only worship one out of two or one out of three weeks in their home church. Sadly, as the pressure of consumerism seeps into the church, a fee-for-service attitude has developed among church attendees. Thus, worshippers are likely to contribute cash or checks primarily on those days when they attend a worship service – when they receive a benefit like worship, Sunday school, fellowship time, children’s ministry, and other programs. If they do not attend worship, they perceive that they have not received a benefit and, therefore, feel less compelled to contribute. Aside from this attitude, it is more difficult to contribute if one is not present for worship. It may require mailing a check to the church office or remembering to make up the contribution on a subsequent week when one does attend worship. Fewer and fewer people are willing to make this effort. If they are to contribute regularly, younger baby boomers and all generations to follow look for easier methods of giving. Electronic fund transfer is one of those methods. Giving kiosks is another.

This ease of giving is not just limited to weekly contributions. How easy is it for people to contribute a major gift? No one is likely to place their stock certificate in the offering plate. Few people even have stock certificates in their possession. Assets are held electronically and transferred electronically. If a person desired to contribute their annual gift by transferring a security, does a well-defined process exist? Is this opportunity promoted regularly?

Finally, remember that annual giving is typically a financial contribution from donors’ earned income, not form their assets. Thus, in addition to providing easy methods for people to make an annual contribution, leaders must also convey the range of giving opportunities that draw upon people’s assets. Life income gifts, major gifts, and bequests are some examples of these giving opportunities.

Has your organization provided a means for people to contribute to the disaster response effort in Haiti? Is it easy for people to contribute financially to the ministry of your local church? If you answered, "Yes," to both questions, then you are well on your way to encouraging faithful people to lead generous lives and to having the financial resources to further your ministry vision.

If you have engaged in an innovative response to the earthquake in Haiti or if you have developed some easy methods of giving, then I encourage you to place a comment on my Facebook wall so others may learn from your examples.

Stewarding Church Technology

2009-10-06T14:46:00Z

Amid the fallout from the economic recession, forecasters indicated that this recession is different from previous ones. One of the key differences is the advancement of technology. Cable news reported that technology has changed the “playing fields” of the financial markets and indexes. Moreover, these reports concluded that nations with predominant populations of persons educated in the use of technology will experience a quicker overall financial recovery.

Technological change in the financial world is rapidly impacting the average person. We have been launched into an age of the global economy. Multinational companies, political alliances, and distribution of natural resources are changing our economic landscape in ways not previously imagined. Even now as some economies are beginning to show a glimmer of recovery, firms and political systems are repositioning to maximize potential benefits.

Society has always experienced change, but perhaps the speed of change has achieved a revolutionized pace – the nanosecond. Technology changes are a leading indicator that rapid change is the new constant. The mass ownership of computers has revolutionized our interaction with people as well as information. E-mails, instant messages, electronic transactions, webcasting, and videoconferencing are among a few of these typical interactions. Consider some others: Do you read your church newsletter on-line? Does your church have a Facebook page? Do you Twitter about Bible studies, sermons, or other church-related activities? Do you stop at a giving kiosk to contribute your offering prior to entering the worship service?

Some churches are hesitant to embrace technological change. For instance, while many growing churches offer worship experiences interspersed with various technologies, other churches are hesitant to expand beyond its historic tradition. How do stewards of God’s resources manage this change without losing focus on making disciples of Jesus Christ?

First, we recognize that technology, like money, is not inherently good or evil. An electronic fund transfer, a giving kiosk, or a computer is not designed with a pre-determined moral code! The use of the technology is the key to unlocking whether or not the technology may advance God’s Kingdom through the Church. Many types of technology may, in fact, encourage discipleship and draw younger generations deeper in their spiritual journeys.

However, we continually are to rely on our daily, humble walk with God. The use of technology may enhance, but will not replace, our stewardship of prayers, presence, gifts, witness, and service. Daily prayer, Bible study, devotion, and meditation remain steadfast practices leading to spiritual wholeness. Worship services are opportunities for us to be stewards in a communal way. We are called to be stewards of the Gospel! As Paul wrote, “They are to do good, to be rich in good works, generous and ready to share . . . so that they may take hold of the life that really is life.” I Timothy 6:18-19

Second, we become stewards of technology in order to reach new generations. Churches often lag significantly behind other organizations in their use of new technology. Some of this lag time is due, in part, to fear of change, perceived financial limitations, and lack of vision. Yet, increased technology may attract new parishioners. It may facilitate enhanced pastoral care or streamlined office services. In fact, it may even lead to increased giving.

Third, we confront our self-serving desire for new technology. If we begin purchasing the latest technology simply for the pleasure of having it, we are absorbed by the hyperconsumer culture. This self-indulgent behavior does not further our spiritual growth. It leads to the misconception that our wants are really needs. This unbalanced perspective nudges us closer to the challenge: “Choose this day whom you will serve . . . as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.” Joshua 24:15

Finally, church leaders seeking to nurture people in their faith development will intentionally embrace new technologies. These technologies will not be considered incompatible with faith practices. Rather, they will be considered enhancements to ministry. Growing congregations that are reaching new generations will initiate these technological advancements at a rapid pace. They will encourage electronic fund transfers, blogs, downloadable sermons, online learning communities, image-driven worship, and a wide assortment of other technologies.

If these technology changes seem too fast, remember that regardless of the pace, God remains constant throughout every nanosecond of eternity!

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Stewardship Lessons from Passing Generations

2009-05-31T21:26:00Z

Have you ever heard a person say one of these comments?

"I paid good money for that . . ."
"You never know how much you will need."
"Save it for a rainy day."

Statements like these often remind us of people from the Interbellum Generation (people born between 1900-1913) or the Greatest Generation (people born between 1914 – 1924.) These generations are disappearing rapidly from our culture. Younger generations have observed them and concluded, "They were so frugal that they could make a penny squeak!"

However, frugality was just one aspect of their lifestyle. Their practicality was mixed with generosity and created the code of living for these Great Depression generations. They lived frugally so they could care for one another and support the Church and other societal causes. They gave with respect for previous generations and with expectant vision toward future generations. Their generosity grew out of faithful duty, human obligation, and Christian responsibility. They internalized and lived the stewardship message of the Gospel.

First, these generations understood that we do not actually gain power or prestige by accumulating more. Most of them had a comfortable, small home appointed with with durable goods and personal items. In later years, many of them could have easily bought a larger home or more lavish cars, but they understood Paul’s message in II Corinthians 8:13-15. In this passage, Paul shares with the Corinthians that he needs their help to raise money for a poor church in Jerusalem. These generations grasped the balance between having enough for themselves and having enough to share with others. They were able to support charitable causes and share their faith because they found contentment by living well within their means.

Second, these generations understood the difference between a want and a need. Extravagant consumption – not extravagant generosity – has become the standard lifestyle for so many in our culture. The line between want and need is blurred. We can all think of examples of this blurry delineation between want and need. The high-definition television, the resort-style vacation, the designer-label clothing and accessories, the upscale appliances, the larger cable/satellite channel line-up, the latest technology gadget – We often have mixed emotions when deciding a need from a want. Our hyperconsumer lifestyle has lead to a perception that we need everything we both can and cannot afford. This lifestyle is now being challenged more and more with the economic recession. People are reviewing their lifestyle choices and reflecting on the advice freely offered by the depression era generations: 1) monitor your expenditures; 2) spend significantly less than you earn; 3) save with a patient and purposeful will; 4) determine if your spending leads to deep, abiding contentment in Jesus Christ or temporary joy from the accumulation of possessions, and 5) discover the freedom inherent in generosity. True contentment comes from a relationship with Jesus Christ! In Luke 12:13-21, Jesus illustrates this concept with the Parable of the Rich Fool.

Third, a prevalent truth for these generations and, in fact, for all generations is that God loves us. God’s love for us through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ is the most significant stewardship message of the Gospel. God loves us. Paul reminds us in Ephesians 2:4-10 that the sacrifice of Jesus dying on the cross is God’s living example of stewardship and extravagant generosity. God frees all who believe in God’s redemptive love to be Christian stewards on Earth.

Reflect on some people whom you recall from the Interbellum or Greatest Generation. What example of giving and generosity did they model for you? I remember my grandparents. They understood that their generosity provided short-term outcomes with long-term consequences. Their giving offered an immediate boost to a person’s life or a charity’s income. However, their giving provided a lasting impact. Their focus remained steadfast on these long-term outcomes. For example, a contribution to a seminar student’s education provides immediate relief to the seminarian, but the seminary education offered the student a foundation for a lifetime of pastoral service. The small contribution to the local church endowment fund was an immediate gesture of remembrance in memory of a close friend, but the growth of the endowment fund over the years strengthens the church’s ministry. My grandparents, like many of these generations, were inspired by their faith to be generous with their church, their family, and their community. They gave beyond tithing because of the experiential joy they received sharing God’s blessings.

I invite you to reflect on some of the lessons expressed by these generations. Adapt these lessons to your own discipleship today. Reflect with a sense of respect for their witness and with an expectant vision toward future generations. In so doing, I pray that you will find the freedom offered to those who choose to be extravagantly generous.

More Money & Quickly!

2009-04-21T14:46:00Z

A colleague recently asked me, "What do church leaders believe is their greatest area of stewardship need?" The answer is easy. Most church leaders perceive that the greatest area of stewardship need is the need for MONEY. They need more of it, and they need it quickly! From local church volunteers to denominational office staff, church leaders are concerned, if not fearful, about the bottom line impact of the economic recession on their corporate balance sheet, not to mention their personal wallet. The economy has necessarily impacted decisions across the Church. Staff restructuring, modified long range plans, budget deficits, and internal tension are all visible symptoms of these decisions.

A superficial glance may lead one to determine that more money would alleviate the symptoms and provide stability for the Church. I do not believe that more money solely will solve their dilemma. The Church has lacked some signs of stability for decades. Declining membership has riddled many denominations. According to Giving USA, giving to religion, as a share of overall charitable giving, has fallen over several decades from greater than half to nearly one-third today. Signs of mainline church decline did not suddenly begin with the economic recession. Nonetheless, the recession has accelerated the organizational life span of some churches. It also has apparently forced some growing, vibrant churches to scale back staff and various ministries. Yet, many churches are continuing to expand their ministry and to do more rather than less during these challenging times.

While I often begin a consultation with church leaders’ perception that more money is the answer, I work hard to reframe their assumptions and lead them to different conclusions. First, I begin by reminding church leaders about the Gospel message of hope. I invite them to revisit the Good News of Jesus Christ. It might seem simplistic, but this Gospel message separates us from all other fundraisers. It provides reassurance during difficult times. We are bombarded daily with despairing messages and gloomy forecasts. It is easy to be swept up in that momentum. As a result, more and more church leaders are operating out of fear, rather than out of hope. We cannot base all of our decisions upon fear. Our faith does not lead us to fearful conclusions, rather to hopeful expectations. The story of Jesus does not end with His suffering and death. It concludes with the promise of resurrection and new life. As Easter people, we are called to begin with this premise of hope.

Second, we must recognize God’s blessings in our own community. We are challenged to celebrate our strengths as a church. Focusing on our strengths allows hope to be a part of the conversation. These gifts help us fulfill our purpose, our mission, and our vision. I recall Vance P. Ross often praying a benediction with words to the effect, "Recognize that God has blessed you. God did not bless you for you to keep that blessing to yourself. Share it with others! Be a blessing to others!" The Church has an opportunity to be a blessing to others today more than ever. A clearly stated purpose, mission, and vision motivate people to give. Taking measurable steps to achieve that purpose, mission, and vision will change people’s lives. The witness of those changed lives lead people to be generous.

Third, financial generosity is just one aspect of a Christian steward. Stewardship is part of living as a disciple of Jesus Christ. Cultivating stewards is a year-round ministry leading to an ever-expanding Christian movement of generosity. It is essential to implement specific, practical plans that create effective year-round stewardship.

Is God calling you to help alter the cultural myth that more money will solve all of our problems? If so, your actions may encourage other church leaders to:

Preach the Good News
Offer God’s blessing to others
Focus on the Church’s purpose, mission, and vision
Practice holistic, year-round stewardship

In so doing, the Church may experience a wealth of revitalization, growth, renewal, and generosity. This wealth is my hopeful expectation. I invite it to be your hopeful expectation, too!

The Big Three: Remaining Focused on the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit

2009-01-08T21:34:00Z

Read Matthew 28:16-20

The American auto manufacturers, often referred to as The Big Three, are forecast to have an unprecedented socio-economic impact on North America, and perhaps the world, over the coming months and year.

Industry experts spent weeks lobbying either for or against a financial bailout of the auto industry. Arguments for a financial bailout were grounded on the principle that without it the result would include: higher unemployment, decreased tax revenue, more home foreclosures, increased mental health issues, escalated criminal activity, and compounded pension burdens.

Arguments for withholding aid offered a different perspective. This perspective suggested that a failing industry will continue to fail even with a financial bailout. Moreover, a private equity firm with significant holdings in two of the three manufacturers would be the greatest financial beneficiary of a bailout. Others challenged the economic viability of the UAW or the executive compensation packages and bonus allowances.

People are projecting their emotions on The Big Three with a level of intensity that mirrors the emotional responses commonly expressed in religious communities. Responses across the emotional spectrum, ranging from hope and trust to fear and anger, are being levied upon the American auto industry. In some ways, the auto industry has assumed an omnipotent persona. This persona has not been sought solely through the industry's own pursuit. The recent financial bailout of the American auto manufacturers has heightened this persona and has polarized people’s perspectives. Will the bailout provide the stimulus necessary to save? Will human intervention and our choices lead to even deeper despair? These rhetorical questions have theological overtones.

Our feverish dervish into the American auto industry and its broadening impact is an example of our insatiable desire to control life. Yet, God is in control ultimately. The Big Three transforming lives throughout the centuries is the Holy Trinity – not the manufacturers of cars! Our perspective is often short-sided, rather than eternal. When we invest our time, talents, and prayers with increased intensity on the sustainability of corporations, rather than on the provision of God, we first need to bailout our own spiritual depravity. God – Father, Son, and Holy Spirit – is capable of leading us out of any despair and offers salvation and hope beyond compare. During these challenging financial times, we need to be in close communion with our Creator, Sustainer, and Redeemer. An economic recession does not need to precipitate a recession of our faith.

So, what actions may we pursue that will strengthen our faith, even amid these current financial woes?

Begin by recognizing that everything in life is a gift from God.
Place our ultimate hope and trust in God.
Pray unceasingly for our ability to follow God’s direction.
Recount our many blessings and be thankful.
Be proactive in developing a God-honoring personal/family budget.
Support charitable causes with financial gifts. Giving helps to release us from the bondage of being controlled by money.
Look for the abundance of God more than the scarcity of our diminished returns.
Seek the spiritual support of the Church and other Christians.

Let’s be bold! Undoubtedly, today is a challenging economic period across the global community. Yet, we are called to be bold proclaimers of the Good News of the Gospel. If we earnestly pursue these actions, we most likely will achieve a different perspective, increase our decision making ability, and grow in our faith.

Prayer: Holy One, we seek your wisdom and guidance. Many of us face growing economic uncertainty. The realities of the recession close in on our lives. We experience realities like job loss, deflated investment accounts, increased grocery prices, delayed retirement plans, and mounting debt. Lift us from the depth of self-pity and despair. Save us from overwhelming fear and anger. Offer us your wisdom. You alone are our shining light. We pray in the name of God, the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Amen. (Based on For Our Country from the United Methodist Hymnal, page 429.)

Spare Change

2008-11-16T21:03:00Z

What happens to spare change? Many people have developed interesting ways of collecting or using their spare change. Some families collect it in a jar for a designated family activity, like vacations. Parents often give these coins to their children for safe keeping in a piggy bank. Still others keep it in the change holder of their car for road tolls or quick stops at a drive-thru.

The value and use of spare change is relative depending on one’s income level. For instance, one might consider generous giving to the mission and ministry of the church. A few dollars of spare change may represent a generous offering for some people. However, these coins also represent the leftover money – truly spare change – placed in an offering plate by others with greater monetary means.

By definition, spare change is money not required to cover the expense of daily existence. Some people won’t even carry spare change. They want to avoid the jingle of the coins, the perceived hassle of finding the coins, or even the actual weight of the coins in their pocket or wallet. Spare change to one person may be the equivalent to a daily wage for another person. Money is relative to one’s point of view or socio-economic position in our global community.

Luke 15:8-10 records the Parable of the Lost Coin. Jesus’ message to his disciples is not focused on spare change, but rather on a perspective of abundance and generosity. Jesus compares finding a lost coin to finding treasure in heaven. He provides lessons in economics, wealth management, and repentance.

The woman in the parable lost the equivalent of one day’s worth of wages – well beyond the spare change in her life. Today, a daily minimum wage employee would earn approximately $60.00. This daily wage might seem like spare change to a millionaire. Frankly, many people who are far from being millionaires live a lifestyle where spending $60.00 here or there is treated like spare change. Yet for others, this daily wage may be the difference between providing food and shelter or being hungry and homeless. The value of the lost coin decreases relative to the wealth of the individual.

As one’s disposable income decreases, one’s desire and need to make prudent spending choices increases. However, many North Americans have fallen into the cultural pull of satisfying our perceived "needs." In this self-indulgent society, we treat ourselves first. We are swept up in the enticing ideology of living for today. The more one becomes entangled in self-indulgence, the less one can maintain the biblical principles of saving and giving. Money ends up controlling people’s daily lives. Jesus reminds us that generous giving frees us from this bondage and opens the possibility for other pervading, God-honoring principles to direct our daily lives. When spare change is dropped in the offering plate, spiritual poverty supersedes economic poverty.

Jesus offers hope for the spiritually impoverished. This hope is the gift of salvation offered to those who repent of their sins. God offers everyone, regardless of economic standing, the gifts of freedom, hope, and deliverance. Like the woman in this parable, we are called to treasure the gift of God’s grace so freely given to all. Generous giving is one example of living a lifestyle grounded in God-honoring principles. What do our habits with spare change suggest about our values, priorities, and commitment to God?

Economic Bailout

2008-10-15T22:26:00Z

No matter how it is framed, the historic economic bailout of the U.S. financial system (the Emergency Stabilization Act of 2008, one act of Public Law 110-343) is most likely not one of America’s finest moments. By using extreme language coding, the response to the financial crisis has shifted from a bailout to a rescue bill to a taxpayer investment plan. Initially, Congress was unable to pass the essential $700 billion bill. In fact, Americans were told that every one of us would be impacted without the passage of the bill. We consistently heard sound-bites suggesting economic demise would result if the plan had not passed. Yet, if this plan is partially an investment plan for taxpayers as it has been described, then why have we not heard positive sound-bites about the plan, like the ways in which the bailout will produce an economic upswing? What will the middle class actually own with this pernicious asset? The focus has been far more on fear than on hope.

So how did we get in such an apparent financial crisis? Did it start with the subprime meltdown and then unravel into an overall mortgage crises? Did it all begin when the Security Exchange Commission (SEC) deregulated the rule governing capital to cover losses in order to avoid excessive leverage? Did financial institutions deliberately lie to unsuspecting buyers about the affordability of their home or auto purchases? Did an exponential number of individuals lack personal responsibility for their buying decisions?

Corporate, political, and individual greed is a debilitating, perhaps evil, side of our consumption-driven culture. Greed not only implies excessive desire and consumption, it also includes the acrimonious manipulation of markets, institutions, and individuals. More importantly, greed breaks down the ability for people to embrace deeply committed, spiritual lives.

Greed is toxic to Christian values. Being focused on "getting it all" violates the first commandment and elevates money as a god, certainly a false god, in our lives. As recorded throughout the Bible, God instructs believers to be industrious and to make a living. At the same time, God instructs people that stockpiling money is not a central goal. Hoarding money will destroy our eternal lives. Paul stated in I Timothy 6:6-10 that "the love of money is the root of all evil."

However, money itself is not evil. Money is a tool that is to be used responsibly by God’s stewards. Christian stewardship is essentially the management of all of God’s resources to accomplish God’s will. Paul reminds us to acknowledge that money, like all of our possessions, belongs to God in the first place. We are entrusted to earn, give, save, and spend it in a manner that brings God glory and honor.

Stewardship begins with an attitude of gratitude. At the Last Supper, Jesus first gave thanks as an act of gratitude before commencing the sacred meal. Gratitude serves as a source of strength. Gratitude grounds our perspective in one of abundance, not scarcity. It shifts our focus away from greed. When gratitude to God becomes our focal point, we are freed from the constraints of rivalry and jealousy.

Enormous debt as an expected outcome of daily living or corporate existence is largely driven by greed. It is a contagion that seems to have impacted all levels of our society, including colossal financial institutions and major corporations. The reawakening of human values needed to combat this cultural disposition is only possible through a different kind of life-saving bill. It is a rescue plan that encourages individuals to be knowledgeable about their consumer tendencies and their relationship with God. This bailout is a call to all church leaders to elevate the priority for effective year-round stewardship best practices. Finally, it is an investment plan in the knowledge and promise of God’s amazing grace.

So, here is the sound-bite: We are called to serve God, not money. It is truly a calling worth more than $700 billion dollars!

Money Insurance or God's Assurance

2008-07-24T16:29:00Z

Most people usually have at least one type of insurance – auto insurance. Many individuals also have other types of insurance, like life, long-term healthcare, or property insurance. Some persons even carry a comprehensive policy, commonly called an “umbrella policy.” Realistically, one may purchase insurance to cover just about any type of property or circumstance.

What type of insurance do you have? Regardless of the policies that you may currently own, one type of insurance protects you from worshipping material wealth. This policy encourages prudent financial giving. Some people may have discovered this insurance; others are still searching for it.

In Luke 16, Jesus shares with his disciples the story of the dishonest manager. In this parable, the manager, who was employed by a wealthy man, faced the risk of sudden unemployment. He had foolishly squandered the property that had been entrusted to him. He desperately attempted to salvage his employment. The manager sought new friendships by settling outstanding debt with the employer’s clients and by accepting an amount smaller than the balance. Jesus concludes this parable by teaching that those dishonest with small matters are likely to be dishonest with greater ones. Jesus further states that those who are dishonest with material wealth will not be faithful to God. It is impossible to worship both money and God.

The true wealth offered by Jesus is the abundance of God’s grace. Jesus reminds his disciples to be faithful stewards of resources that ultimately belong to God. By focusing on God instead of money, one will be held forever by God. Money does not have this eternal ability. The themes in this parable are not limited to dishonesty, selfishness, and materialism. Jesus extends the ways to use wealth for God’s purposes rather than for mere self-serving purposes. Christians affirm the belief that people are stewards or managers of God’s gifts. Giving protects one from being ruled by material wealth. Giving is a freeing experience. One is led by God in whom one places ultimate trust and faith.

God desires for us to live lives that are measured by our ability to give, not to get! People often miss the most important relationship of all when they are trapped in the hyperconsumer culture of material wealth. This most important relationship is the saving, grace-filled relationship of Jesus Christ. It is a life of assurance! It is life insurance!

So do you have insurance? Are you regularly committed to giving your witness, prayers, presence, and financial gifts? If you read the fine print in God’s policy, you will note that you are covered from here to eternity!

What Is the Message?

2008-06-04T04:04:00Z

Chicago O’Hare Airport was busy. I was eating lunch in the crowded food court and watching the bustle of people walking briskly along Concourse H of Terminal 3. An undercurrent of indiscernible conversations buzzed around me. Yet, I could hear the muffled voice of a gate agent from somewhere on Concourse H as she called various boarding groups; another voice on the other side of the food court yelling a to-go order number; and yet another voice calling stand-by passengers. Amid this entire undercurrent, one voice was very clear. The voice boomed above all other announcements. This message broadcast over the public address system throughout the entire terminal.

"Effective immediately by order of the Transportation Security Administration: If you plan to travel with liquids, gels or aerosols in your carry-on bag remember 3-1-1. All liquids, gels and aerosols must be in a 3 ounce or less sized containers. Containers must be placed in a 1 quart-size, clear, plastic, zip-top bag. Only one bag is permitted per traveler. It must be removed from your carry-on and placed in the security bin for x-ray screening."

Why was this message being broadcast on the concourses? Every person in Concourses G, H, K, and L had been cleared by TSA. The message did not have relevancy to people already on the concourse and either about to board a plane or to leave the airport. If people didn’t know about this rule, then they certainly learned about it while going through the TSA checkpoint. No one walking along these concourses needed to pass through a TSA checkpoint again on that particular day. The people who really needed to hear this message were those outside of the concourses – those checking-in at a kiosk; those standing in a TSA checkpoint line; those just arriving at the airport. Nonetheless, the announcement played every 15 minutes throughout the terminal.

If one thought for too long about hearing this message being repeated over and over again, one might be insulted. Am I so dense that I need to hear the message again and again? Did I forget what the TSA employee who was passing out the zip-top bags said to other passengers and me at the checkpoint? The answer to both is "No." I’m guessing it’s easier to broadcast the message throughout the terminal or the technology is not sufficiently advanced to provide distinct announcements in certain zones of the terminal.

Faith-based organizations are often guilty of this same mass approach. Granted people need to receive the same information numerous times in various ways in order to retain it. Yet, we often provide one message because of its apparent ease. This technique is glaringly apparent when many faith-based organizations and churches solicit charitable gifts – one annual campaign with identical material provided to every constituent; one designated appeal with the same invitation issued to every donor; one thank you letter mail merged to all contributors. It’s easier. It’s more efficient. It saves time and expenses. It requires less sophisticated donor-tracking software.

However, look at the end result. One mass approach makes funding ministry harder, not easier. The message may insult some people. The message may be considered irrelevant. The message may communicate an impersonal attitude. In a world of every increasing personal choice, we are challenged to conduct fund development with greater segmentation and personalization. Segmented appeals and personal thank you letters are required in today’s culture. Consider the many demographic segments in your donor database. How many different methods of invitation do you implore when asking for generous support? I urge you to determine at least five or six segments. Invite their participation in different ways. Provide them with different information by diverse means. Repeat these efforts when you thank them for their contribution.

As I walked to Gate H11a, I passed thru the food court and thought about the millions of food combinations that exist for the savvy traveler. Our ministries are just as varied. Then, I heard that message again, "Effective immediately by order of . . ."

Actually, we do have a message to broadcast to all: "For God so loved the world . . ."

Economic Stimulus Package Checks

2008-05-19T22:50:00Z

Tax rebate checks have already arrived by direct deposit to several Americans’ bank accounts. Upwards of 130 million American families and individuals will be receiving the so-called "economic stimulus package" checks in the weeks ahead from the Internal Revenue Service. Eligible persons will receive up to $600 ($1,200 for married couples), and parents will receive an additional $300 for each eligible child under the age of 17. If you add to these figures the average tax refund -- $2,225 in 2007 – you’ll have plenty of cash to buy the 50" flat screen TV (Money, April, 2008.) Uncle Sam hopes that these tax refunds will stimulate the U.S. economy and, thus, have some ripple effects in the global economy.

So, where will the money go once individuals and families receive it? According to a National Retail Federation survey, people plan to spend about 40% of their tax rebate. This spending is predicted to send a boost of $42 billion into the slumping economy. People who were surveyed indicated that much of their spending will be reserved for necessities – gas, groceries, medical care. They also plan to pay down debt, save, and invest. Retailers are hoping to increase this 40% figure and to expand spending to include non-necessity items. Companies have launched some incentives in hopes of increasing their market share and receiving the dollars of these tax rebate checks. For instance, some retailers are providing consumers with a bonus gift card equal to 10% of their rebate when these conusumers spend their entire tax rebate check at the retailer.

Most money-related magazines, almost every cable news channel and major TV network, numerous retailers, and even radio DJs are offering tips, advice, and opinions on these tax rebate checks and the various ways that they will be applied to the average person’s wallet. I’ve seen top ten lists of what you may do with your tax rebate. Many lists provide sound financial advice:

· Pay off consumer debt, home equity loans, and other high-interest loans
· Invest in your education
· Save for retirement through a 401(k), 403(b), or IRA
· Establish an emergency savings account
· Direct a large percentage to your investment account

Most lists also include a suggestion to spend at least a little on yourself – splurge, have fun, treat yourself, do something to feel better! One recommendation has been absent from every list. You guessed it – GIVING! I am yet to see a list that recommends giving a portion of these dollars to a charitable ministry. I was ready to overlook the blatant absence of giving from these lists and to commend their creators for such prudent financial advice. I was, at least, until I noticed that almost every list included this suggestion of self-indulgence. Splurging is not sound financial advice; it is feeding the myth that things bring ultimate contentment, peace, and joy to people’s lives. Self-indulgent stuff may provide moments of comfort, even a warm-fuzzy feeling at first, but long-lasting, profound contentment? Hardly! I’m not against the occasional splurge. I do spend money on me and more on my family. If you know me, then you know that I enjoy an overall comfortable lifestyle – extravagant compared to the global community.

Do faith-based organizations and churches have a voice in this tax rebate discussion? I believe so. Many voices come to mind! But, I’ll limit my voice to include giving on the top ten list of items that one can do with any money received – tax rebate or otherwise.

One may argue that giving money is not sound financial advice. But consider . . . Giving money enables us to have control over it; rather than to be controlled by it. Giving money may be one of the most freeing experiences that we will ever have with money. Giving to a church or charity may help to impact economic justice beyond our individual ability to do so. Giving may remind us of the many ways that we have been sustained in life by outpourings of generosity. Giving may nudge us closer in our relationship with Jesus who gave everything for us.

Perhaps what you can give others through your leadership is encouragement to add giving to their list of tax rebate plans. But first, ask yourself, "Is giving on my list?" – not just for your possible tax rebate check, but for your daily walk in this world. In the words of Jesus, "It is more blessed to give than to receive." Acts 20:35b