Dick's Column

Dear G$ Friends and Colleagues,

For this month's column I've chosen to share some quotations I've come across that seem apropos in light of the on-going (and in all probability long lasting) financial situation the country finds itself in. I find most of them reassuring and all of them thought provoking. Perhaps you will as well.. Sincerely in Christ,

P.S. Initial feedback on the new Freed-Up curriculum has been very positive. We'd love to have yours. Also, note that it's not too late to register for Counselor Leader or Freed-Up Facilitator Training December 5 and 6 at Willow Creek. Click here for more information.

SOME THOUGHT PROVOKING COMMENTS

We can be scared and worried about the future, or we can look at it as a collection of happy surprises that lie outside the path of our imagination. Nassim Taleb

Your stuff is not who you are! If you lost everything tomorrow, you'd still be the same inside. Andy Stanley

How do the spiritual and secular views of money differ? It seems to me the most dramatic and important difference is found in the secular emphasis on fear and greed versus the spirit-rooted vision that emphasizes gratitude and generosity. Henri Nouwen

We need to understand that our Father does want us to have wealth. We just have to be careful not to settle for money! Instead, we need to "seek first the kingdom of God" and everything we need will be added to our lives. Peace, joy, love, goodness, patience, purpose and power are credited to our spiritual account…Now that, my friend, is true wealth! Girlfriends in God Newsletter 10/08

Envy has become a prime engine of economic growth, and easy access to credit has warped the distinction between necessity and desire. NY Times: Feb. 2008

Is tending to our investments, or caring for our possessions, or trying to earn more for the things we think we must have to secure our future (or our children's future) hindering our discerning and following the Spirit into the life we should lead? Henri Nouwen

No matter who we are, one of the things we battle at the core is the assumption that the satisfaction of desire is the key to fulfillment in life. Anytime people feel they lack something, the more they focus on that desire. It becomes a cycle, a treadmill you never get off of. And that diminishes a living faith in Christ because it keeps our focus on Are my desires being satisfied? And the answer is always no because no desire stays satisfied for long. John Ortberg, Leadership Magazine. Summer 2006

James starts out with "Consider it all joy when you encounter trials" and then the next thing he talks about is finances. We know the struggle these people were having was with finances. Then he says, "If any lack wisdom, ask God and he will give it to you." Now we know how God helps people with financial difficulties – he gives them wisdom, he doesn't give them a check. Then James says, here's some wisdom. Money doesn't matter. See the rich people? All their stuff is going to burn anyway! ? Miller, Relevant Mag. May/June 07

If the church doesn't teach its people how to save and get out of debt, it is irresponsible to ask them to give. Andy Stanley

I feel good about the fact that in this first year of retirement, my funds are significantly declining in value. Sounds strange, right? The reason I feel good is that in spite of the circumstances, I am at peace. I had always hoped that would be the case if my earthly treasures dissipated. It is very satisfying to have my hope be born out in the face of reality. Anonymous by request

Trust in the Lord and do good… Psalm 37

Let me end with a reminder to those of us who wonder about whether or not our offerings will go down due to the financial crisis. The fact that Obama raised $150 million in October demonstrates there's always money for ideas people believe in. Pastors – preach the word and articulate the vision. Stewardship leaders – teach and train in the biblical principles. The resources will follow.

Blessings!