Shiloh Church held a pivotal congregational meeting yesterday, Sunday, November 13. It was Stewardship Sunday, second-to-last Sunday of the liturgical church year. Shiloh was in the midst of gathering food items for its annual FISH Foodbank Thanksgiving collection, having just completed a record-setting Pumpkin Patch and an unprecedented Fall Fair income.
Despite some tremendous successes, a cloud hung over the congregational meeting. After all, its topic was a manner in which the congregation was to deal with its 2011 cash flow deficit. Throughout the budget process, it appeared that the developing 2012 budget was also going to reflect a sizable deficit. How was the congregation going to deal with the issue?
The Finance Committee developed a recommendation that included a $175,000 withdrawal from the undesignated Endowment Fund. Treasurer, Tom Holmes presented an explanation of the financial situation that the congregation faced. Members of the congregation spoke. The conversation included a proposed reduction of staff and narrowing of mission/ministry. It included open, honest communication about Shiloh's financial state. For a few minutes, the cloud that hung over the meeting darkened.
There was light shining through the cloud, however. For a decade now, many within the congregation have recognized that the core issue of Shiloh's financial state hinged upon income, i.e. the stewardship of the congregation. Shiloh had previously taken a very passive approach to the development of stewards, those willing to put their shoulder to the wheel as a means of shaping the household according to God's will. The conversation turned on the passion of those who spoke about the need to take such responsibility and accountability.
Then, almost naturally, a miracle occurred. Much like the one performed in Jesus' feeding of the 5,000, members and friends of the church saw the possibility of abundance from a context of perceived poverty. What if we joined forces to erase the assumed 2011 deficit? What if we put our money where our concerns are? What if we acted as stewards? Who here will give an additional $500, right now, to erase this deficit? If we get 20 families to so give, we will raise $10,000 of the assumed $14,000 need.
A member of the congregation challenged those present to come forward and sign their names if they were so willing.
More than thirty (30) families signed their names. Some handed over checks, some giving $1,000, others $100, yet others $50. A simple assessment tells us that Shiloh raised well over $15,000, in the matter of about ten minutes. The remaining 2011 deficit was erased. No Endowment money was utilized. Stewards took responsibility and shaped the household. Abundance came from perceived poverty. The clouds were parted and celebration ensued.
Well done, good and faithful servants. You have been faithful over this little. God makes us faithful over much. Enter into the joy of your Master. Celebrate a job well done! Celebrate the miracle!
Remember, though, that Shiloh relies upon our continued stewardship. We will propose a deficit budget for 2012, unless of course the income for this next year increases significantly. Now that Shiloh is taking a more assertive approach to equipping its stewards, however, I am confident that Shiloh will continue to perform miracles. Inspired by the miracle performed at the November 13 congregational meeting, my family is increasing its pledge and giving for 2012. Lisa and I are increasing ours. Casey is increasing hers. Emboldened by what we have just achieved, I invite each steward to do the same.
See You Sunday!
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