Share the Joy of Giving with Your Congregation
Is your glass half empty, or does your cup runneth over?
A good friend and pastor recently had a conversation with one of their members who had a unique issue: "I've been left so much money, and I have no other family members. I really can't give a sacrificial gift because of my excess. How do I make it sacrificial, and still be sure to provide for my end years?"
Yes, this question is probably on the mind of at least several members in every church we serve.
The key is this person's concept (theology) of giving. Does she really need to sacrifice in order for her gift to be meaningful?
Instead of looking at the glass as half empty, I would suggest that the response is to encourage the joy of giving, not the sacrifice. "I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly." (John 10:10)
Take a look around at some great generous givers in today's society - I believe that Bill and Melissa Gates are quite content in their giving approach despite their billions. I also believe Warren Buffet is in that same category. They possess billions, yet experience fulfillment knowing that their wealth is being put to use to serve others.
Too often, campaign committees focus on the wrong things when deciding on a consultant and how their "appeal" might sound. They feel they need "an inspiring and emotional approach" rather than a meaningful discussion. After all, if God would sacrifice His/Her son, why wouldn't you give it all away for the church?
After five weeks of listening to a sacrificial approach from a friend's pulpit, another friend of mine stopped going to church. Why? Because their medical debts were so high they couldn't afford to add even more to their church giving, yet they walked away every one of those five Sundays feeling guilty. Guilt is a pretty natural response for someone in this predicament.
I would hope you'd want to build your church's theology of giving on a foundation of joy and fulfillment. So, when you're in the midst of a financial campaign, perhaps the conversation should start out:
"What makes you feel fulfilled and that your gift will endure to the benefit of Christ's ministry?"
How Can You Create a Culture of Generosity?
Many churches struggle with the concept of stewardship and generosity. How do you teach your congregation to live generously? Learn more in our blog: "How to Create a Culture of Generosity."
To talk more about how you can encourage the joy of giving in your congregation, please call Church Campaign Services at 888.558.6873
or email us today.
