More Than a Building

Sunday while watching the opening video there were questions that made my mind ponder. What am I building? Who am I building? Who am I building on? Is my legacy Rock Solid?

Before I really became involved in the running of a church, I had no idea what all was involved and just how active some members are. I waltzed in on a Sunday morning grabbed a water or coffee and sat- waiting to be entertained, be filled with the spirit and giving the bare minimum. I was doing my part, right? What was required for heaven, right? I didn’t need to get involved, right?

Then one day I felt a need to be a part of it all. I was making friends that seemed to have it more together than I did. Their faith was fuller and they were more content, and I wanted that. In sermons I kept hearing about the 10% tithing and I always thought that was something I couldn’t afford. But I also heard if you do this, more will be given to you -Luke 6:38 says- “Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.” I was still skeptical but increased my giving, gave to mission work, and donated my time and energies to God’s work. And you know what- it’s true! An unexpected refund check would come in the mail, when I needed help I had people doing things for me that left me humbled, and I saw God and I was hearing him and his words in a whole new way. God became my friend as well as my Father.  Our generosity, our sacrifice is not about the amount that we give: but it’s about the surrender in the giving. As we give generously, the fruits of the spirit will follow to change our lives for the better.

I moved to Florida and found Thrive Church as discussions were ongoing about this new building coming on a parcel of land that was already chosen. Over the past months and years, I grew to understand better what was going on and well, it has been a true roller coaster. If you have ever built, remodeled, or fixed anything to do with a building you know it never goes as first predicted. Money never goes as far as you would like and that is where Thrive is right now. The champaign Rock Solid is a way we can give a little more than our regular offering to offset the additional expenses that the building needs. Thrive is hoping that they will not have to take out a loan that will be there for the next generation to pay off but end the build with the monies that will be presented. Our generosity can change everything. Hebrews 13:16 says: “Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God.”

The pastor from the church I came from in Illinois said (while we were going through a huge remodel) that investing what you can into the growth of a church makes you a part owner. The money you give will help further the kingdom and the legacy of God. And you know what – I did feel that. I felt invested to see people come in the doors each week and felt pride in what the community had built for us worship in. I feel the same now with Thrive Community Church. I am eagerly anticipating the day we walk into our new building and give all the glory to God that we have a new home with and for him.

So, while I still pray and ponder over my answers to the questions I opened with, I know God is leading me to do what will be best for me- but more importantly what is best for him.
2 Corinthians 9:11 says– “You will be enriched in every way to be generous in every way, which through us will produce thanksgiving to God.”

So- With much praying and thought- Sunday Oct. 25th will be the day we turn our Rock Solid additional gift commitment card in.