The Economy and Our Church Budgets
The news just keeps getting worse on the economy, and many of our churches are right in the middle of the budgeting process.
Today I participated in one of those meetings where everyone tries to be hopeful and visionary while also facing the realities ahead of us. Like all people of faith, we hold to a firm trust in our Sovereign God and His power, while recognizing that we must be responsible stewards who do not plan to spend more than we should.
Meanwhile, the people attending our churches are most likely anxious and uncertain about the future. More than ever we need to offer them hope in the midst of the darkness, and an eternal perspective when earthly treasures are flying away. God's servants are called to be strong and provide a place of refuge in the midst of the swirling storms. I don't know about you, but I find that to be hugely challenging! We must not pretend all is well, bringing some kind of Pollyannish simplistic response to complex issues. But at the same time, people will take their signal from their leaders. It is time for us to communicate a positive trust in the God who is faithful no matter what.
So what is the atmosphere at your church and on whatever team you serve on? I'd love to hear how others are navigating this delicate balance of bringing hope while not living in denial. The good news is that the light of Christ is needed more than ever to shine brightly in the despair of darkness...