I really love the month of January, for it is the time we focus on mission work at this congregation. So many have become members at Palm Beach Lakes since we began this special contribution for evangelism a decade ago. The idea is simple. Instead of setting the weekly budget number based on the total given on 52 Sundays, we set the weekly budget based on the contribution of 51 Sundays. That other Sunday’s contribution is devoted entirely to evangelism. There was no way any of us could have imagined what the results would have been when we started using this approach. Who would have ever thought that this congregation could have given over $1,000,000 for evangelizing the world!
So here’s the plan for this month. Beginning this Sunday we will look at all the good which has already been accomplished by the sacrificial spirit of so many members. I doubt that any of us can sense just how much impact the Lord has had using Palm Beach Lakes. I really hope you can be here for the next two weeks as we look at a world map to see what He has done. I love the way Paul described the church at Thessalonica, “For from you the word of the Lord has sounded forth, not only in Macedonia and Achaia, but also in every place. Your faith toward God has gone out…” (1 Thess. 1:8). Truly we have been saved to be His instruments to save others.
There is a danger of being filled with pride. Remember that it is not we who have done this, but a great God who has molded our hearts and blessed our lives to bring all this about. On the other hand, let us be joyfully thankful for all that He has done. The world is lost, and God has used us.
The third Sunday of January we will look at the challenges for the new year. There is that obligation we have to current works, and they take priority. Then we will spend time dreaming together of how much more we can accomplish. What we do for Him in the new year, above and beyond continuing support already committed, will be determined by our willingness to sacrifice to make these dreams a reality.
Let me give one illustration of the impact of your liberality. Who would have ever thought that we could send over 400,000 copies of the House to House, Heart to Heart publication to those in this area! The funds to do this came about because of your response to a dream presented to this church which became a reality. I hope every member will be present on January 19 as we dream together!
Then, on the last Sunday of this month, the entire contribution will be devoted to evangelism. Let us pray together; let us sacrifice together; let us dream together. Not just dream together with each other, but to dream with Him. I really love Januarys. Let’s make this one the best one ever!