Connecting with Future Generations

How many of you know what I mean when I say, Connecting with Future Generations?

This is the official name for the facilities master plan project we introduced to you this summer and we highlighted at the ministry expo two weeks ago.

I want you to know what this project means to me.
First, we have some older buildings that are beyond their useful life. While they have served us well and we are thankful, they need to be replaced. Second, I am excited that the first phase of this project is focused primarily on enhancing the environment we are creating for children and families to come to know Jesus and grow in Him. Third, we are embracing our stewardship of the land God gave this church 57 years ago. We are building to meet the needs of current and future generations just like people did when they built the old chapel, old gym, the CE building, the CLC and all of the buildings we enjoy today.

So when you hear connecting with future generations know that we are talking about phase one of our master plan.

Many of you are now asking, “How are we going to get the money for Connecting with Future Generations?” And as elders we have been asking, “How are we believing God for the necessary resources?” After months of prayer and wrestling, here is what we believe God is calling us to do over the next sixty days; everyone prays hard and leaders give first.

First, everyone prays hard.
God has put it on my heart that my primary responsibility is to pray. On September 1st I began praying though our master list of people in our church body. Over the next 30 days my commitment is to spend two hours a day during the week praying for the individuals on this list. I am praying that we will see more clearly the greatness of the One who loves us, that we will desire Jesus deeply, follow Jesus closely and trust Jesus fully. And as we trust Jesus as the owner of the world and all it contains I am praying that we will live as stewards storing up treasure in heaven. I am praying that God will put on your heart to engage, pray and give toward Connecting with Future Generations.

If you would like to bring a friend and join me in prayer call the pastors office. In October you will receive a devotional developed by people in our body to help us spend the month praying in one accord.

Second, leaders give first.
In 1 Chronicles 29 David was gathering the resources for God’s temple that would serve future generations. Let’s be clear, we are not building a temple but we are relying on God to provide for what we believe is His work. There are some things David did that we believe God is calling us to do. The first thing that David did was give from his own treasury and call on leaders to give. And as David and the leaders gave, guess what happened? The scriptures tell us everyone was encouraged in the LORD and everyone gave gladly. Therefore, I am praying and asking you – if you see yourself as a leader here – because of the ministry you hold, because of the influence you have, or because of the gifts that God has entrusted to you, I am asking you to start praying right now about what you will invest in Connecting with Future Generations.

Leaders, as God puts on your heart what you are to give, we invite you to let us know during the month of October. As you give, we will keep the body updated regarding our progress, so that the body will be encouraged and take joy in your willingness as they consider what they will pledge the first Sunday in November.

In the mean time, our elders will be considering their own gifts, and speaking with many of you to answer your questions and to help you understand what this project is about. Please feel free to contact one of them or our executive pastor Brandt Wright. In addition, we have established a Connecting with Future Generations page on our website to help answer your questions.

May we passionately pursue Jesus Christ in the midst of this venture of faith. I am believing God to use this project to produce great rejoicing and lead us to overflowing, humble worship as David and the Isrealites experienced in 2 Chronicles 29.