Financial Update
For many, Christmas this year will be a very stressful time. With the economic crisis and jobs disappearing faster than the Cowboy's playoff hopes, it can be scary. There is not a sect of our society left unaffected by the economic downturn. Even MLB and the NFL laid people off this week. So, how can we continue the mission of God during a time of financial fear? Is it even possible?
Providence Church, like most others, has been affected by the economic situation. Our giving is down significantly. We saw a 39 percent drop in October, a 22 percent drop in November and an overall 10 percent drop for the year. This produces a $39,000 shortfall for 2008. December is traditionally a month when giving goes up and we may make up some of this shortfall, but the general effects will remain.
The Elders have instructed the staff to make strategic cuts in the budget for 2008 and move toward a "war time" budget for the rest of the year. We have cut things that we consider "non-essential" but beneficial expenditures such as: expense accounts, sound/AV equipment, office supplies, computers (Amanda's is basically an abacus), communication and marketing allotments, as well as others. We have also reduced almost all ministry budgets for the year in order to be good stewards and prudent planners. I tell you all this to encourage you that we are being as prudent and strategic as possible so that we can accomplish the mission God has given us regardless of the circumstances we find ourselves in.
The good news is that the mission of God through the church cannot be stopped by any economic situation. "And I tell you, you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it." (Matthew 16:18) So our hope remains in Christ and his ability to continue his work throughout this season. In saying that we should be reminded that our Christian response to this economic season should not be fear but trust in God. If we as a people respond in fear, then our ministry will suffer and the mission will slow, but if we respond by trusting God we will "shine like stars" (Dan. 12:3) in a secular and increasingly hopeless culture.
While people are frantically and fearfully grabbing at any mirage of security, we have a unique opportunity to "redeem our city" through our hope. My challenge to each family is to respond in faith and continue to fight for the mission of Jesus in our city. What does this mean practically? Here are a couple of things that will help you keep fear from trumping mission.
1. Continue to Pray
Pray for provision both for your family and the church. Ask that God would see the plight of his children all over the world who are desperately trying to provide food, clothes and medicine for their children.
2. Continue to Give Faithfully
While it is common to get behind on your giving, make it up. We should be mindful of the financial situation of our community at all times. Providence Church is not an organization funded by donors but a family on mission for God. Hopefully you feel part of this family. Continued giving is always helpful during economic hardship. Even secular economists recommend prudent giving during this time to relieve your fears!
3. Plan prudently
For many, the economic downturn has turned into an economic crisis because we've lived beyond our means. For a long time the bulk of the country got away with it, but now it's caught up to us. As the people of God, let's learn from this mistake and begin to plan our finances and then stick to the plan. This will help you react honorably in times like this.
My hope is that your family has a tremendously joyful holiday. Allow it to remind us that Christmas is not about gifts and presents but Jesus and family. Our hope is in Jesus and our fear can be defeated. "For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control." (2 Tim. 1:7) With all of that said I would like a chocolate statue of Jesus wearing a Falcons jersey for Christmas. I'm pretty sure you have to get me something or God will be angry. The prophet Jeremiah says that anyone who stands against a man of God will be very sorry. (Jeremiah 18:18-23) And I consider not being showered with gifts as standing against me and, of course, God. In all seriousness, the best gift for me is your continued faithfulness and your ever-increasing joy. Happy Holidays.
