Generis Senior Strategist...taking a fresh look at what generosity looks like in everyday life...bringing joy to others through giving.
An Apple a Day
Years ago someone told me “an apple a day keeps the doctor away.” I often thought (assuming I could afford such) what my portfolio would be if I had bought a share of Apple every day!
I recently priced an apple at the local market and the cost was $1.00. What would the world be like if each of us gave $1.00 to someone each day next year. The challenge for all is to give an apple a day. Why wait…let’s start today.
Life After Easter
Churches throughout the world have been moving through the holy season that leads to victory on Easter day. It’s a season that tells of the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Easter sets the stage for us to proclaim to the world, “He’s alive!” It makes us who we are as a fellowship of believers.
But what about life after Easter? What plans have we made to continue the proclamation? In reality, our lives now as Christ followers should be re-invigorated and more robust. Our boldness should be seen and heard through loving invitations to those needing the love of God in their lives, through involvement in teaching, learning, and serving, and through acts of radical generosity. For example, I recently read of a church that began a sermon series on Easter rather than ending one!
On Easter, our congregations swell by 40 to 50 percent with people who are mostly absent from church throughout the rest of the year–except at Christmas. However, according to a recent survey published by Barna Research, less than one-third of born-again Christians are planning to invite anyone to join them at a church event this Easter season. In other words, we are merely hoping they come–and come back.
However, another Barna study revealed that 64 percent of the population is completely open to pursuing their faith in an environment or structure that differs from that of a typical church. And 75 percent believe that God is motivating them to connect with Him through different means and experiences than were common in the past. It’s time to help them find Christ–and do whatever it takes to make that happen.
The churches I work with have seen God move in incredible ways through their capital campaign initiatives. In a sluggish economy, they have painted a picture of bringing others to Christ–and their people have responded with indescribable generosity. They see their efforts as creating opportunity for people to seek and meet Christ, learn of His unconditional love, and the share that love through service and giving.
Let’s all take this heart for others to the next level. Put plans in place to offer up yourselves, your church, and the new environment you’ve created to practice intentional invitation and hospitality to those around you. Look for opportunities to reach beyond the norm. Be relentless in opening your hearts and doors. Make every day Easter day.
Yes, there is life after Easter. It’s why we’re all here.
Tom
