Have you ever been driving and become annoyed by all the traffic cones, heavy equipment, slowed traffic and what seems to be a mess? In many cases, there will be a sign that says, “Your Tax Dollars at Work.” This doesn’t always leave you with the best feeling. Sometimes you are hopeful that the work will one day be finished and you’ll drive on newly paved or expanded road, other times it seems that by the time the job is finished, a new mess has been made in the process. More often than not, my mind goes to the wasteful spending and perceived poor management of the project that results in a grumpy attitude.
Now, how about a blog post that reads: “Your Sacrificial Giving at Work?” Wouldn’t you like to know where your sacrificial giving is going? There is a lot of transparency in our church budget as to how finances are allocated but there are also items labelled “Missions Resource Fund,” or “Benevolence Fund.” How do those get spent? I am so glad you asked, as this blog aims to shed a light on how you are blessing people and proclaiming Jesus through the funds you have given sacrificially.
First, one of your missionaries that is new to the mission field was in need of additional support to secure a vehicle for their family. You sent $2,500 to assist in getting that vehicle purchased and transported by barge to their new place of ministry service.
Second, one of your missionaries that trains church leaders/pastors in Africa and Nepal was short funds for materials to offer the fullest experience to their class. You were able to assist with funding for those materials, plus additional funds to help with travel expenses. $2,500
Third, a missionary in San Bruno, Mexico who serves as a bishop for many churches in the area had an accident in his vehicle and needed to purchase a new one. You were able to match your $2,000 donation to make it $4,000 so that they could purchase a new vehicle.
Fourth, Bible translators in Indonesia moved to a new location that was without air conditioning and this made for tough conditions for our translators. The heat was causing everyone to get less sleep and work more slowly. Your additional support helped to provide air conditioning and bring proper working conditions to those who do the important work of Bible Translation. $2,000
Fifth, a church member was struggling to pay bills with some slow downs at work. You were able to help share the burden of bills as a loving support to a brother in Christ. This served as a reminder of God’s care for His Children. $1,500
Sixth, numerous needs are met on almost a weekly basis from water bills, electric bills, needs for fuel or car repairs. These needs are all met with a pastoral visit, spiritual care and gospel presentation and then the needs are met by paying the bill directly from our church benevolence fund. This has even resulted in people attending our church to investigate this loving and kind God that we serve.
I could go on, but mainly wanted to shed a light on the fact that your dollars are at work! Our hope is that you are blessed by our sharing of some of the ways your giving has gone out to proclaim the gospel and bless the community both locally and globally.
-Pastor Paul