Pat Springle, in her essay, The Genesis of Generosity, makes the observation that “a growing number of church leaders today are taking bold steps to help their people become truly generous.” Leaders that teach, preach, celebrate, and model the idea that giving is much more than financial stewardship and tithing. As these leaders preach, teach, and model generosity as a way of life in their ministry setting changes are happening in the churches, agencies, and institutions to which they are connected. Churches that are becoming known for their generosity are moving away from a campaign mentality that focuses on giving primarily in response to needs like building programs or church budgets. Instead they are creating an atmosphere or culture which stewardship is not a program they run but rather, an honest expression of who they are as the church of Jesus Christ.

Senior Pastor Brian Tome, of Crossroads Church in Cincinnati, OH puts it this way, “By not talking about God’s perspective on money and possessions, we condition people to become consumers instead of givers. We wanted to communicate with our parishioners that we’re not here just to fund our local church ministry. We’re part of a revolution God initiated to change the world.” Friends, the “revolution” begins with each and every one of us being a blessing to the people around us—and eventually, being a blessing to people around the world. Generosity is not a program—being a blessing should be a passion that inspires everything we are, everything we say, and everything we do. Pastor Brian works with this theology, “We unapologetically present giving opportunities to our congregation. We’re happy to give everybody the opportunity to have an impact on the world.

By: Rev. Dr. Rich Hendrickson On 1/27/2012

Topics: Stewardship