Is it possible to cultivate a mindset within our congregations and institutions that would reframe the stresses of the budgeting and fundraising season? Could a “sharing” mindset open up more creativity and decrease the feeling of fighting for scarce resources? The mindset I have in mind is “generosity,” writes David Odom, executive director, Leadership Education at Duke Divinity School.
Although not a “churchy” article, Wharton Management Professor Adam Grant’s interview with Nicholas Kristof about a “path” to more effective giving is sure to spark some ideas about how to ignite congregants’ passion for ministry and mission opportunities. (Photo: opensource.com, Creative Commons)
Dr. Chuck Lawless believes people need “a vision…a challenge…a purpose” in order to give generously, and he offers 10 ideas to jump-start the process. Are you ready? (Photo: Kate Ter Haar, Creative Commons)
“Generosity is a form of trust,” says pastor and author Brian Zahnd. “This is why Jesus constantly tells us not to worry about scarcity, but to trust in God. We are not limited to a finite, zero-based, closed-system universe.” Check out this compelling reflection–especially in light of the gospel lesson for this coming Sunday (9th Sunday after Pentecost, Year B). Photo: Erik Fitzpatrick, Creative Commons
According to writer/editor Tim Challies, there is indeed a substantial cost when it comes to radical generosity, but it’s definitely worth it. (Photo: Stewardship-Transforming Generosity, Creative Commons)
As God convicted my heart and I began to read Scripture with fresh eyes, whole sections of the Bible came alive for me. In particular, God’s concern for orphans struck a chord, says Chip Ingram in a blog post on Lifeway.com. (Photo by Alan Light, used by Creative Commons license)
Jon Weese was challenged to turn a struggling church around and he did so by challenging people to look outside the doors rather than inward toward themselves. He practiced radical giving of self, time, and resources and expected the congregation to do the same. Read this article published in Relevant Magazine to learn more. (Photo: […]
Narrative Lectionary Reflection for March 1, 2015
The parable of the workers in the vineyard is certainly applicable to 21st century disciples, too. Perhaps as individuals we can be sort of stingy with God’s grace—not to mention sharing our own resources. Do we really trust God so little that we fail to believe the divine promise of plenty? (Photo: Chris Potter, Creative Commons)
Has your congregation embraced online giving as part of your overall stewardship plan? If not, here’s an article that may help you counter four popular myths. (Photo: Scott McLeod, Creative Commons)
When Chicago’s struggling Lasalle Street Church received an unexpected windfall, it did the unexpected — giving every member $500 and asking them to use it for good. “It feels like a faith experiment more than a social experiment,” Pastor Laura Truax said. (Photo by Steven DePolo, used by Creative Commons license)
