SUMMER 2014 Summer 2014 • $8.95
Journal of Children, Youth & Family Ministry
THE MONEY ISSUE 1
Master of Divinity Julie Hagen Wilson, ’07, lower right, with a group of youth during her first call at Advent Lutheran Church in New York City. Wilson is now called to Lord of Life in Maple Grove, Minn.
Master of arts
Get your Cyf at Ls! Earn a degree in Children, Youth and Family Ministry at Luther Seminary! There’s never been a better time to earn a degree focused on children, youth and family ministry. A recent curriculum revision at Luther Seminary responds to the needs of an ever-changing church and world. You’ll learn in face-to-face classes, online, during individualized discovery and in active ministries. Luther Seminary’s mission is to educate leaders for Christian communities. As one of those leaders, you’ll get an education that is gospel-centered, flexible, integrated, service-focused and more affordable. We invite you to visit with any of our Luther Seminary staff or faculty at the Extravaganza. Or visit us online at www.luthersem.edu/admissions. We’d love to talk with you about your ministry goals! Online learning options available!
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www.luthersem.edu/admissions
SUMMER 2014
PUBLICATION INFORMATION Published by: ELCA Youth Ministry Network www.elcaymnet.org
Subscription Information: call 866-ELCANET (352-2638) or visit: www.elcaymnet.org connect@elcaymnet.org
CONTENTS Welcome! Todd Buegler
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Stories and Stewardship Grace Duddy
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Milennials and Money Abigail Letsinger
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An Origin Story: $15 In The Money Jar An Interview with Nathan Dungan
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Tending Treasure From Infancy to Tweendom Dawn Rundman
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How to Talk to Kids About Stewardship Mike Ward
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Calendar of Events
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A View from Somewhere Else 19 George Baum Design and Layout: Michael Sladek Impression Media Group www.impressionmediagroup.com
UPCOMING CONNECT ISSUE THEMES: Managing Editor: Erin Gibbons
Connect Editorial Board: Todd Buegler, Tim Coltvet, Nate Frambach, Sue Mendenhall, Dawn Rundman, Clint Schnekloth, Michael Sladek
Cover Design & Photo ©2014 Michael Sladek
The Future of Outdoor Ministry (Fall ‘14) Story (Winter ‘15) The Funny Issue (Spring ‘15)
ELCA YOUTH MINISTRY NETWORK BOARD Julie Miller: Board Member
Tom Schwolert: Board Member
Sue Megrund: Board Member
Valerie Taylor Samuel: Board Member
Rev. Ben Morris: Board Member
Erik Ullestad: Board Chairperson
Dr. Jeremy Myers, AIM: Board Member
Rev. Todd Buegler: Executive Director
The ELCA Youth Ministry Network exists to strengthen and empower adult youth ministry leaders in service to Christ as a part of God’s mission. 3
WELCOME!
NEWS BITS THE NETWORK HAS MOVED!
How do we talk with young people about money? Well, to be honest, generally we probably don’t. Or if we do, we tend to not be very good at it. There are all sorts of things that get in our way: Culturally, we don’t talk about money very much in general (unless we’re talking about someone else’s money). • We don’t want to intrude. • We don’t want to be “pushy.” • We don’t want to be accused of “always talking about money.” • It doesn’t sound fun. • Theologically, we don’t want to be accused of talking too much about “works righteousness.” So (insert big, broad generalization alert here) we usually just ignore it. We relegate it to the little kid envelopes that children bring for Sunday School offering, and in some congregations (but not that many), we give young people an opportunity to pledge once they are confirmed. But the thing is, we shouldn’t. Stewardship…generosity…giving…it is a faith practice. And an important part of faith formation is engaging young people in faith practices. Jesus wasn’t afraid of talking about money. He spoke quite passionately about how we tend our financial resources. He had some rather strong opinions about it, as a matter of fact. And yes, we know that stewardship is about much more than money. Care of our finances is, in fact, just a small part of our stewardship. But with young people, it’s most often the money part that gets left out. So the Connect editorial team decided to tackle this important, but often under-discussed issue. How do we as leaders in faith formation with the young, tackle talking about finances… stewardship…generosity…and how do we help them understand that God calls us to make generosity a lifestyle, a habit and a faith practice?
Please note that the new snail mail address for the Network’s global headquarters is now: ELCA Youth Ministry Network 150 Oakwood Lane Owatonna, Minnesota 55060
EXTRAVAGANZA REGISTRATION IS OPEN, and registrations are coming in quickly! You can get more information and register online at www.elcaymnet.org/e2015!
NOMINATIONS ARE STILL OPEN FOR THE NETWORK BOARD OF DIRECTORS! Perhaps you know someone with gifts for leadership for the whole church. Perhaps it’s you! More information can be found at www. elcaymnet.org/board
THE NETWORK WELCOMES NEW PARTNER ORGANIZATIONS! Thanks to Flathead Lutheran Bible Camp and YouthWorks!
HAVE YOU CHECKED OUT ALL OF THE RESOURCES ON THE PRACTICE DISCIPLESHIP PAGE?
Networked in Christ,
Todd Buegler Executive Director – ELCA Youth Ministry Network Pastor – Trinity Lutheran Church; Owatonna, Minnesota Todd@elcaymnet.org
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There’s great stuff there! Lots that you can use with your volunteers! And now, many of the items of curriculum have been translated into Spanish! How cool is that?
SUMMER 2014
STORIES AND STEWARDSHIP by Grace Duddy Growing up in the church, I don’t think I ever heard the word “stewardship.” In Sunday school, I got a sticker for bringing a few coins as an “offering.” In Sunday worship, I heard I was supposed to tithe, but I wasn’t sure why or where the money went. In youth group, we were occasionally encouraged to give money to a specific Christian non-profit. But that was it. There was no discussion of what it meant to be a good “steward.” I learned more about the act of stewardship from watching my family. When I was in high school, my parents told my brother and me that they were giving an anonymous gift to the church to buy new projection equipment for the youth room. I was really struck by their gesture. They didn’t give money for the praise or recognition; instead, they gave because they had been richly blessed and wanted to find a way to give back. And it wasn’t just my parents’ example that taught me about giving. Growing up, I was always struck by my grandparents’ contagious spirit of generosity. They lived frugally throughout their lives, so that they could spend their retirement traveling and giving generously to family, friends and organizations that were important to them. Their generosity showed me that stewardship is about more than just giving to the church; it’s about managing your money well so you can use it to love God and your neighbor. More than any church teaching, these and other personal stories have shaped me into the steward that I am today. In my experience, many congregations seem to cross their fingers and hope that children and youth will “catch” stewardship. They hope that if children watch adults put money into the offering plate, hear the classic children’s sermon about tithing (you have ten coins, one goes to God and the rest is for you) and are presented with offering envelopes, they will grow up to be “good stewards” who give generously to the church. This practice hasn’t yet proved to be very effective. Many congregational leaders don’t try to teach stewardship to adults, children or youth because as leaders, they’re afraid. They’re
afraid of what stewardship means because it’s a bigger commitment than just opening up your wallet and giving a dollar here and there. They’re afraid to ask people for money because those people might simply say, “No.” They’re afraid of teaching about money because as leaders, they might have to share personal details about their own monetary decisions. And they’re afraid because to most people, stewardship is just the method by which the church pays its bills, and “paying the bills” isn’t a very compelling reason for people to give. The job of churches and church leaders is to overcome the fear of talking about money and help people understand that stewardship is about more than just “paying the bills.” To do this effectively, focus on stories of stewardship – the Bible’s stories, personal stories, stories from children and youth and the story of your congregation.
The job of churches and church leaders is to overcome the fear of talking about money and help people understand that stewardship is about more than just “paying the bills.” EXPLORE THE BIBLICAL STORY OF STEWARDSHIP In the Bible, stewardship and love are inextricably linked. In Genesis 1, God creates the world in love and in that same spirit of love, empowers humanity to care for God’s earth. Just as individuals are called to be stewards of creation, so are churches. By supporting the church through stewardship, we are fulfilling God’s call to care for creation. God’s love and desire to be in relationship with us is an example of stewardship. John 3:16 states, “For God so loved the world that 5
he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not perish but may have eternal life.” God’s love for us is illustrated in Jesus’ life, death and resurrection. God makes this sacrifice for the people. When we give of our resources to support our church, we reflect God’s sacrifice and love for us. Stewardship is one way we are invited to experience and share God’s love. As good stewards, we can live out Jesus’ call in Matthew 22:37-39: “‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind.’ This is the greatest and first commandment. And a second is like it: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’” If we focus our whole beings on God, the natural response is to offer our resources to God and to use those resources to love our neighbor. The Good Samaritan story in Luke 10:25-37 illustrates the intrinsic connection between love and stewardship. The Samaritan doesn’t just say he loves his neighbor; he lives it. He offers his time by stopping to help the injured man. He offers his talent by using his skills to bandage the man’s wounds. He offers his possessions by using wine and oil to dress the man’s wounds, allowing the man to ride on his donkey and paying the innkeeper to care for him. The Good Samaritan exemplifies stewardship by giving of himself in order to care for and love his neighbor. These are just a few examples of biblical stewardship. In addition, Mark 6:30-44 and 1 Kings 17:7-16 teach about generosity. Deuteronomy 14:22-29 talks about tithing. And 2 Corinthians 9:6-15 tells us to give cheerfully. Each of these and others can help us to understand that the meaning of stewardship embodies more than just dollars and cents.
SHARE YOUR PERSONAL STEWARDSHIP STORY Before we can teach others about stewardship, we need to understand and live it ourselves. Take some time to pray about and study biblical examples of stewardship. Read about stewardship in books such as “The Soul of Money” by Lynne Twist or “Enough” by Adam Hamilton.
Then consider your own experiences with stewardship. Where did you first learn about stewardship? What motivates you to give? Take some time to explore the personal experiences and the biblical narratives that have shaped you as a steward. Invite your fellow ministry leaders to go on this journey with you. Don’t be afraid to share both the ups and downs of your stewardship story. Your listeners will be encouraged to know that you don’t have it all figured out either.
HELP CHILDREN AND YOUTH DISCOVER THEIR OWN STEWARDSHIP STORY As adults, we are called to teach our children about stewardship. Understanding stewardship begins with recognizing generosity and gratitude. Invite children and youth to share what they are most grateful for and how they express that gratitude. Encourage them to take photos and write down or share on social media examples of generosity they witness. Work with children and youth to brainstorm ways to live out stewardship in their daily lives at school, at home, and elsewhere. Help them deconstruct “mountaintop moments,” or powerful stories that inspire them to think differently about God, themselves, their neighbors and God’s creation. Don’t let those stories stay on the mountaintop. Help children and youth to find ways to enact those lessons in everyday life by asking them, “How will you live differently, every day, in response to what you have experienced?” During these story-sharing conversations, help young people identify what they can share. Maybe it’s an allowance, a skill, their time or a contagious smile. Help them realize the variety of assets and stories they have, and emphasize that these assets, no matter the size, are important to their church and community. Check out “The Power of Asset Mapping: How Your Congregation Can Act on
Its Gifts,” by Luther Snow for support on having this conversation. Similarly, we can use these story-sharing moments to teach children and youth how to decide where to give. Christ Church Episcopal in Richmond, Virginia did this through a project called the “Big Charity Check-A-Thon.” They gave each child in their congregation a sum of money that he or she could give to any charity. The congregation taught kids how to research different charities and make a well-informed decision on where to give their money. Stewardship should be a conversation with the whole family. Invite families to attend an intergenerational, family-friendly conversation on stewardship. Children, youth and families can explore together what stewardship means to them and how they might live this out in their daily lives. Consider utilizing the ELCA’s resources on creating a “Money Autobiography” or the “Mind Your Money” flipbook offered by Share Save Spend as you plan your event.
INVITE EACH PERSON TO BE PART OF THE CONGREGATION’S STEWARDSHIP STORY While the congregation is not the only place where we are called to live out our identity as stewards, it is certainly an important one. To invite people to be part of your congregation’s stewardship story, you need to ask. Be specific. Ask members to give to support a specific ministry within your church. Invite them to participate in the church’s ministry by serving on a ministry team, participating in an event or taking part in leading worship. Remind people that every gift makes a difference and no gift is too small. And always remember to thank each person for his or her gift. In teaching stewardship to adults, children and youth, it is important to show them how monetary gifts are used, both inside and out-
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side of the congregation. Invite people to offer input on how gifts should be used. Light of the World Lutheran Church in Farmington, MN uses an activity called “The Big Give” to allow people of all ages the chance to help decide where the congregation’s benevolence money will go. A few times a year, they give everyone who attends worship three fake “dollars.” During the offering, everyone is invited to come up to the front to put their “dollars” into the buckets representing different community organizations. The number of “dollars” in each bucket determines the percentage of money that will be given to each organization. Stewardship doesn’t need to be solely in the hands of church leadership. Invite active givers in the congregation to be stewardship leaders by sharing their stories of giving, generosity and gratitude. Have representatives of the various ministries within and outside of your church to share about their work and join in asking the congregation for gifts. Children and youth can be great voices in the stewardship conversation. This year, St. Alban’s Episcopal Church in Austin, Texas invited the youth to be their stewardship committee. The youth spoke in church and at the fellowship hour. They did skits and made signs. It was a very transformative experience for all involved and that year, pledges increased. Stewardship can be a difficult topic to tackle in a congregational setting, especially with children and youth. At the end of the day, it is the personal and biblical stories of stewardship lived out that will help all people learn to become better stewards of God’s love in daily life.
Grace Duddy joined Kairos as Executive Director of Operations in 2014. Prior to coming to Kairos, Grace served as the Assistant Director of the Center for Stewardship Leaders at Luther Seminary. She has degrees in math and religion from St. Olaf College and a Master of Arts degree in Congregational Mission and Leadership from Luther Seminary. She is the author of the recent year-round stewardship resource published by the ELCA, “Stewards of God’s Love” and an active member of the Minneapolis Area Synod stewardship table.
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MILLENIALS AND MONEY When talking about stewardship, it is usually easiest to talk about “time” or “talents”, because money talk makes even the best of us uncomfortable. When talking to millennials about stewardship, the same holds true. The funny thing about talking about “millennials” and money is that for the most part, we’re talking about a resource many of us are not in possession of. Many of us are college graduates. Some of us have acquired multiple degrees. It is wildly known that we are the first generation that will not be “better of” than the one prior. We spend a good portion of our income on student loans. (Each month, the total of my payments to various lenders are in the triple digits. The high triple digits.) We have declared our emotional and physical independence, but still rely on our parents to cosign loans-as our income to debt ratio prevents most of us from getting approved on our own-or a decent interest rate if we are. I read a survey recently from the American Institute of Certified Accountants that stated as many as half of millenials still need financial help from their parents. 25% of millennials have used a credit card to pay bills, and 7 out of 10 millennials define financial stability as having enough money to pay all the bills-not for saving, or retirementbut simply getting by. No nest eggs or rainy day funds, vacations or luxuries here. So how, then, do we talk to millennials about money? If you’re the church, it should start with conversations about, well, anything other than money, really.
current situation? What are the things that worry me? Dream with me about my future. Take an active interest in my plans.
So, coming from both a pastor and a millennial, before you ask me for my money…
TALK TO ME ABOUT STARTING WITH “SACRIFICIAL” GIVING.
ASK ME HOW I AM
In my experience, money-especially when I was in college and seminary-was tight. (It’s still tight now, but I can now afford the non-generic fruit loops!) However, I practice I could regularly participate in was that of “sacrificial” giving. I could commit to giving up one thing a week I would normally spend my meager dollars on. Usually this was Starbucks. (Later, it was beer.) I would then set aside that money for the church. It wasn’t much, but it was a way I felt I could contribute. And affirming these types of practices will let a person know that
Maybe I’ve only visited a few times. Maybe I grew up in the church and have returned to live with my parents post graduation. Maybe you’re a congregation near the university I attend. I could list a plethora of potential situations, but the point remains the same. Before you add someone to the weekly newsletter, or send out personalized offering envelopes, sit down for a cup of coffee with the person. Ask questions, and actually want to learn the answers. How do I feel about my
ASK ME WHAT I’M INTERESTED IN Inquire about my passions. See if I volunteer. Look for correlations between what I love and what your church is doing. Then let me know about those things.
ASK ME WHAT I’D LIKE TO CHANGE This is quite possibly the most important one, but it needs to be taken seriously. So don’t ask unless you are prepared to do so. If I’ve been regularly attending any sort of service or event or function your church takes part in, come prepared to honestly wonder if there are things I would like to see done differently.
ASK ME HOW I WANT TO HELP Chances are if I have opinions, I am also interested in helping. Let me know about opportunities, groups, studies, projects-anything that you think might be in line with my interests.
ASK ME TO ASK Create a space where I feel comfortable and safe to be curious and challenging. Let me ask questions. I don’t speak for all millennials by any means. Still I think these are good practices to implement for all people. How then, should we bring up money?
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by Abigail Letsinger any contribution-no matter how small-is appreciated and valued.
DO NOT PRESSURE ME TO COMMIT TO A LONG TERM GIVING PLAN RIGHT AWAY/ COMMIT TO TAKING A PERCENTAGE DIRECTLY FROM MY BANK ACCOUNT Chances are, I don’t know what I’m having for lunch tomorrow so I definitely can’t commit to a year long pledge. With so many millennials living in uncertain financial times and a general state of limbo, something like this can add undo pressure, and push a person away. This needs to be built up to. Gradually.
CONSIDER HAVING YOUR CHURCH BRING IN ACCOUNTANTS, CONSULTANTS, AND PEOPLE TO LEAD A MONEY MANAGEMENT COURSE. This is extremely helpful, and I’m not talking about Dave Ramsey here. I bet there are professionals in most of our congregations with such expertise. There are also many people and firms willing to come help educate. Most of us come out of college with debt that could buy a house, and no clue how to set up our own finances. Supply us with ways how-and show us ways we can incorporate giving into such a tight budget. In the end, just be real. Don’t sugar coat. Money is money, and we all need it. It takes a certain amount to keep things running and operational. We know this. So don’t be afraid to talk about what it is your church needs. Honesty goes a long way. Because in the end, if I don’t trust you, you aren’t getting my money.
Abigail Letsinger is a graduate of Wartburg Seminary and a Mission Developer for the ELCA, with an emphasis on nontraditional ministry. Abigail is deeply passionate about being church in the world. A Midwestern transplant, Abigail is currently smitten with her new Southern home.
AN ORIGIN STORY: $15 IN THE MONEY JAR
An Interview with Nathan Dungan
You may be familiar with Nathan Dungan’s work as founder and president of Share Save Spend®, whether you’ve used resources with children and youth in your congregation, read articles about his work, or provided Share Save Spend piggy banks for kids. For this issue on stewardship, we interviewed Nathan so children and youth ministry leaders could learn more about how his vocational journey began at church, at camp, and in the home.
ND: It was the mid-1970s and I don’t think many people, especially in the church, were thinking too much about teaching kids about money. As a result, I don’t have too many memories of learning about money in Sunday school or youth group. I do remember raising money for various youth activities, giving a weekly offering, and volunteering in the community—all of which contributed to my learning journey.
Connect Journal: Tell us about some early experiences from your childhood and youth that led to your current work. Nathan Dungan: In reflecting back on my childhood, there were two key experiences that stood out and impacted my money journey. The first was when I was quite young (age 6) and my parents were the directors of Luther Park Bible Camp in Chetek, WI. There was a missionary group visiting the camp and they shared their story about doing work with children in Africa. More specifically, [they spoke of] how they were going to be working with children to teach them how to read. At the end of their talk, they asked for financial support to support their work in Africa. I was moved by their request, rode my bike home, and pulled all the money I had in my money jar, $15, and gave it to the leader of the missionary group. That was the day I became a philanthropist.
CJ: Many of our readers work in youth ministry as professional or volunteer leaders. They are interacting with students and families who are often busy and stressed about many things, including money. What are some ways youth leaders can be healthy financial role models for the kids they work with? What about when these kids are getting not-so-healthy money messages in their households? ND: Two important ways youth leaders can model healthy money habits is to think about how they use money and also talk about money when they are around youth and families from their congregation. Youth will often look outside of their nuclear families for other voices on topics like money. For that reason, it is important for youth leaders to understand the role and influence they can have with youth, especially on issues related to money. The learning can happen via informal one-to-one conversations or in more formal group learning settings that may include the parents. Multigenerational group learning can be an excellent way for youth who may not be getting the healthiest money messages at home to learn from others—both peers and adults. My latest book and DVD, Money Sanity Solutions, offer numerous topics and a simple blueprint to help youth leaders facilitate learning with youth (middle school through high school) and their parents.
The second key experience for me as a child was the intentional allowance I received from my parents. It started quite young and allowed me the freedom to learn how to make money choices—share, save and spend. They also talked with my three older siblings and me quite frequently about various money issues, which helped us develop confidence and competence about money and the role it played in our lives. For example, I knew how much my parents paid for our home when I was in fourth grade. It was $48,000. CJ: What memories, if any, do you have of learning about money, finances, and stewardship in Sunday school and/or youth group?
CJ: How do you think being a person of faith enhances one’s understanding of stewardship? ND: My experience in working with faith communities suggests that a person’s faith journey helps them think more broadly and increases their compassion for the needs of
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others—especially as it relates to money. By having a heightened awareness to these issues it can help ground them and make them more mindful about the choices they make with money—be it to share, save or spend. CJ: What are your thoughts on the common youth group practice of raising a sizable sum of money for a trip such as a youth gathering, servant event, or mission trip? ND: While raising money for significant events can be both meaningful and gratifying, if this is the only time a youth group focuses on the topic of money, it’s a missed opportunity. The consumer culture presents many opportunities for a youth group to learn about various money issues throughout the year, such as back-to-school shopping, the Christmas season, prom, graduation, birthdays, Valentine’s Day, and extracurricular activities such as sports and music. And don’t forget to address the many lessons on sharing money with others and saving for the future. CJ: What Bible story do you find most helpful for your own work? What is inspirational to you about this story? ND: I find the story of the widow’s offering (Luke 21:1-4) particularly inspirational. “He looked up and saw rich people putting their gifts into the treasury; he also saw a poor widow put in two small copper coins. He said, “Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put in more than all of them; for all of them have contributed out of their abundance, but she out of her poverty has put in all she had to live on.” This is still true today in the US. The population with the fewest financial resources gives a far greater percentage of their annual earnings to charity. It’s a simple yet powerful example of the responsibility we all have to give back—especially those with more financial resources.
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CJ: What are 3 things a youth leader could do to help kids and youth realize their roles as stewards? ND: 1. Step into money conversations more frequently with youth. Our Mind Your Money discussion starter could be a helpful resource. 2. Convene multigenerational learning groups in your congregation to explore various money topics. 3. Open the learning to families in your community and invite them to participate in the learning journey. CJ: Are you seeing trends (economic, generational, cultural, etc.) that suggest that more financial sanity IS possible? ND: Yes! This was just published in the July 2014 edition of Scientific American Mind. “Fortunately, materialism can be purposefully altered, as the team discovered in the fourth study—the first ever to use a randomized, controlled design to try to change materialistic beliefs. A group of adolescents from the U.S. joined a program [Share Save Spend’s Financial Sanity curriculum] designed to lessen the value they place on materialistic goals, whereas a control group did not receive the intervention. In three sessions [lead by Nathan Dungan] lasting three hours each, participants were taught about consumer culture. They were also encouraged to clarify their intrinsic values (such as self-growth, closeness with friends and family, and contributing to the community) and to make financial decisions based on those values.” This research demonstrates that you can take proactive steps to reduce the priority a young person places on spending and materialistic goals.
Nathan Dungan is the founder and president of Share Save Spend ® . For over 20 years, Nathan has been an industry thought-leader on helping individuals and families align their values with their money decisions. He is the on the Boards of the Campaign for a Commercial Free Childhood and Youth Frontiers. Nathan also has served as the Chair of the Board of Trustees of Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota Foundation and as the Board Chair of YouthCARE of MN. He founded Share Save Spend in 2003. Money Sanity U® is Nathan’s newest resource for organizations. This subscription based earning library is designed to improve individuals and families financial wellbeing by addressing a variety of money topics in a simple and interactive format. Learn more at ShareSaveSpend.com.
NATHAN DUNGAN FILLS IN THE BLANKS ABOUT HEALTH MONEY HABITS FOR KIDS AND YOUTH.
By the time a child starts kindergarten, they should have this healthy money habit: A small values-based allowance (e.g. $3 a week equally divided among share, save and spend). Use this as a springboard for money conversations and to get them comfortable with money.
By the time a youth begins middle school/junior high, they should have this healthy money habit: Research their back-to-school shopping needs/wants and then create a budget (with parental oversight) to complete
Nathan lives in Minneapolis, MN with his wife Susan Hawks and their daughter Elsa. Nathan and his wife are avid walkers and take full advantage of living in Minneapolis and utilizing the #1 rated park system in the country.
the experience.
By the time a young person graduates from high school, they should have this healthy money habit: Understand how a credit card works and why it is so important to pay it in full each month. Ideally they will have earned the right to begin using a credit card as they transition to college.
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EXTRAVAGANZA
2015
JANUARY 29-FEBRUARY 2 DETROIT, MICHIGAN • MARRIOTT AT THE RENAISSANCE CENTER INTENSIVE CARE: JAN. 29-30 • MAIN EVENT: JAN. 30-FEB. 2
WWW.ELCAYMNET.ORG 11
TENDING TREASURE FROM INFANCY TO TWEENDOM By Dawn Rundman Stewardship. It’s a term we know, but it’s primarily used in congregational life only during the times of pledges, annual budgeting and capital campaigns. Pretty grown-up stuff, right? Before you write off the topic of stewardship as an adult-only matter, consider this: by the time kids enter tweendom, they will spend an estimated $30 billion annually and influence $150 billion in parent spending. (Source: researchandmarkets.com 2013 report, “Tween Sensibility, Spending, and Influence”) Whether they realize it or not, kids play a big a role in family finances. As a church, we can embrace the opportunity to teach about living lives as financial stewards from the time a child enters the family at birth or adoption. By exploring how kids understand money at different ages, we become equipped to develop strategies for how to actively include stewardship as a part of faith formation. First, a definition of stewardship. Check a dictionary or thesaurus and you’ll find terms like “guardian,” “custodian,” “agent,” “overseer”— even “warden!” These terms are unfamiliar to most children. But there is one term synonymous for steward that kids are familiar with: “caregiver.” So where are kids at when it comes to learning about being a steward, or caregiver, of finances? Let’s start at the beginning of the lifespan with the infant period.
BABIES, BABIES Babies would love to interact with money—if we’d let them. Shiny round coins appeal to them because of color, texture, and size. Paper bills are crinkly and ready for ripping. Currency has no value to these little ones except for their visual, auditory and tactile qualities. However, children’s developmental levels shouldn’t prevent us from talking about stewardship during infancy. After all, any parents of newborns will be able to tell you how much of a financial impact the arrival of an infant makes on family finances. New parents are juggling bills for labor and delivery or adoption; diapers, formula and clothing costs; and the need for car seats, cribs and other gear.
These baby-related expenses may be paired with potential decreased income if one or both parents adjust their hours at work or shift focus away from their career to their new child. What does this mean? As families welcome this new little person in their lives, they are readjusting budgets as their expenditures rise.
BEHOLD, THE TODDLER! Between the first and second year of life, young children develop the capability for representational thought, meaning they understand that one thing can symbolize, or represent, another. A word represents a person, object or action. For example, a block can stand in for a cup. But toddlers are still far from understanding that money represents something beyond just shiny circles or green paper. For now, they don’t yet grasp that money may be one of the most significant representational objects they’ll encounter throughout their lives because it will be exchanged for needed things—food, shelter, clothing or that irresistible train set in the toy aisle. That’s not to say that stewardship is completely beyond the understanding of kids this age. In addition to representational thought, toddlers also start to develop cognitive understanding of some key concepts needed to become stewards of resources, like sharing and caring. One of the first words many toddlers express is the enthusiastically-stated “Mine!” They begin learning language and experiencing expectations around sharing, and they use sharing as a strategy to connect with others and show they care for others (although not as often as parents may hope). Toddlers may also develop favorites—toys, blankets, dolls—that they actively steward, deeply loving and caring for these things. Faith formation experiences at church and at home can support these stewarding origins by reinforcing that we are loved by a generous God and that we are called at all ages to love, care for and share with others.
PRESCHOOLERS AT PLAY Once children enter the preschooler years, their play begins to incorporate concepts related to money’s representational qualities. Picture a preschool’s dramatic play station 12
with a grocery store, farmers’ market or flower shop. Not only are there toy goods at these places of commerce; many include a cash register with play money. Beyond just play, young children are also encouraged to start exploring money concepts during preacademic math instruction. Coins are often used to teach simple addition and subtraction problems, with teachers pairing coins with items for purchase. Children of this age may also start paying attention to monetary transactions that occur around them, like parents paying for groceries, a restaurant meal or a new bike. However, they still associate value of money with quantity of actual objects, so most preschoolers would much rather have 50 shiny pennies than a single dollar bill. During preschool, kids start to understand that money means something at home, at school, at the store and at church. Think about the 4-year-old excited to give some coins to the Sunday school offering collected for the Global Barnyard or a Habitat for Humanity project. As children begin to learn Bible stories that teach about Jesus, we can make sure that some of these stories tell about offerings and giving so that kids learn from the start that part of living a life of faith is hearing stories about people who are generous with their giving.
IT’S ELEMENTARY As kids enter formal schooling beginning with kindergarten, opportunities to observe money in action are everywhere. Money appears as a content area in day-to-day school life. Currency is incorporated into how math concepts are taught and is often included in state and national standards for education. Kids who order hot lunch each day figure out that some kind of transaction has occurred that allows them to eat. And fundraisers for school programs, sports teams and scouts can be commonplace, with group goals and rewards for high sellers. Kids also tune in more closely to financial transactions at home and in the community when they’re with family members. They witness parents paying for groceries at the
SUMMER 2014
store. Kids may notice parents making online payments or writing checks to pay monthly bills. Elementary-age kids often begin receiving weekly allowance for chores (or not, depending on the family’s allowance philosophy) and gift cards for birthdays. In other words, kids understand more about money and start receiving opportunities to steward their own money. This is also the time when many parents note individual differences in their kids when it comes to saving money for a big-ticket item versus spending it as soon as it’s received. At this age, kids may notice the ways in which money and finances are part of church life. Does your bulletin include financial updates? Kids may look at these numbers and try to figure out what the amounts mean. During the offering, kids witness that some (but not all) people put cash or offering envelopes into the collection plate. Money may be mentioned in the weekly announcements, during the sermon or in print materials conveying everything from mission support needs to roof replacement costs. Kids recognize whether these money matters are treated as adult-only topics or are used to invite children to become part of the conversation.
SO WHAT’S A CHURCH TO DO? As a church, we can embrace an amazing opportunity to focus on teaching kids from their youngest years about how to take on the vibrant and important role of steward. Rooting ideas about money in a biblical and theological understanding—now that’s a gift of value we can give!
Here are tips to help you incorporate stewardship into your children’s ministry. Teach families, not just kids. Most kids will never see their parents writing a check for the offering plate every Saturday night. For many families, giving is automated or more sporadic. Because families may not have an observable ritual of giving, think about how your congregation can support multigenerational conversations and events about giving.
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Teach stewardship stories. We find a range of stewardship stories in scripture, from God commanding Adam to till and keep the garden of Eden (Genesis 2:15) to the parable of the talents (Matthew 25:14-30) and the widow’s offering (Mark 12:41-44). When kids explore these stories, help them make connections to their own faith lives of giving.
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Model generous giving. Highlight the ways that your congregation gives its members’ offerings to a range of mission-related organizations and causes. This helps kids learn that money does not stay in your church but is shared with people in need.
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Provide kids an opportunity to give. Kids should have an opportunity to offer their own money so they can begin to develop this type of sharing as a faith practice. Give children choices about who will receive their offerings or plan opportunities for kids to use their talents for fundraising.
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Include kids in stewardship campaigns. Think about your congregation’s annual stewardship campaign. How are kids involved? (Are kids involved?) Include kids in your strategy, communication plan and celebration of goals achieved.
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What a gift it is for your church to teach kids about stewarding the gifts God has provided. Embrace the task with gusto, get creative with your methods and pray for guidance in raising up the next generation of stewards.
Dawn Rundman is Director of Children’s Development at sparkhouse, the ecumenical division of Augsburg Fortress Publishers. She leads workshops, forums, and retreats on topics including faith formation, child development, church culture, media, neuroscience, architecture, self care, and strategic planning. Dawn lives in the Twin Cities with her husband Jonathan and their two children, a saver and a spender.
HOW TO TALK TO KIDS ABOUT STEWARDSHIP By Mike Ward Two quick stories— 1. When I served as Pastor of Youth and Family at a congregation in North Carolina, every year on Stewardship Sunday I would ask the confirmands “How much are your parents giving to the ministry of the congregation next year?” Nobody ever answered! I would then ask, “Well then, what percentage of their income have they chosen to give to the ministry of the congregation next year”? Again, silence. 2. Growing up, and even still today I witness a ritual in our worship services where, during the offering time, parents dig into their change purses and provide their child a quarter to place in the offering plate as it comes by them in the pew. Unfortunately, since they never actually talk about stewardship, all this well-intentioned ritual teaches children is that what we should give to God is nothing more than “pocket change” decided upon at the last minute. As the kids grow up, they may graduate to giving a dollar or maybe a $5, but not much more and they never discern their giving. If parents, mentors, or professional church workers don’t ever teach children about stewardship, then how will they ever learn? Stewardship isn’t a dirty word. It might be a little bit “churchy”, but it is rich and full and helps us realize that we aren’t conducting a “fundraiser” when the plate comes by. If we are conducting a fundraiser, then we have to compete with other “worthwhile” causes. If we are stewards, we are proclaiming our faith. Here are the primary reasons why I want to teach children and youth (and adults too!) about stewardship. We are stewards because; 1. The First Article of the Creed---I believe that God created me and all that exists and God gives me the ability to earn the
money I have, and that everything I have and everything that I am is a gift from God. People need to come to understand and know and see this God. 2. Jesus states in Matthew 6:21 that “Where your treasure is, your heart will be also”. I want people’s hearts to be in our churches. I don’t want their hearts to be in travel soccer or cars or big houses or other material or trivial matters. I want peoples hearts at church, with God. Pocket change is not treasure. The median giver in the North American Church gives 0.9% of their income. If we believe what Jesus says in Matthew 6:21, the reason that the place of church in society is declining has a direct link to giving. 3. Living as a steward makes life worth living as it boldly proclaims that God and others are important and we don’t live so much for self. Helping change people’s lives through gifts given through significant ministry helps make life interesting and full. Kids can handle learning about stewardship. Back at the church I served, after the kids couldn’t answer my questions, I gave them a homework assignment and that was to talk to their parents about how to make a giving decision. But, I didn’t stop there. I then proceeded to write my salary on the whiteboard, multiply by .1 and show them what my wife and I would be giving to the church and church ministries that year. They didn’t gasp. They didn’t leave the church and never come back. Some of them actually asked questions and had a great conversation about the priorities of life and yes, even the First Article of the Creed. Another great benefit to talking with kids about stewardship is that then, they can lead us. Many of my favorite stories of giving are about children giving. Here are just a few:
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• When my daughter was about 8 or 9, she was deeply touched because of the witness of four young adults from Malawi who came to Camp Lutheridge to share their gifts and to be a global partner with the summer camp ministry there. She was so touched that for her birthday she asked her friends not to give her presents, but to bring gifts of school supplies to send back with the Malawians. • When I led a Synod-wide capital appeal to raise $8 million, one of the greatest stewardship witnesses came from a thirteen-year old girl. During the campaign in her congregation she determined that she would give up a soft drink per week, or $1 per week. Over the three-year pledge period, this came to a gift of $150. She shared this with the congregation on Sunday morning. After doing so, her parents confessed that they had to increase their gift in order that their daughter not give more to the project than they did! • And then, there is Grace. She is 7. On pledge Sunday, she didn’t want to share her parents pledge form. She wanted to make her own pledge. She and her mom had a great conversation about an appropriate amount to pledge. For Grace, it was $5 per month for three years. That math comes to $180. She uses her allowance. Each month an envelope is received with a $5 bill and a note that says, “Love, Grace”! The three stories above not only provided gifts where they were needed. They witnessed to the love of our God and they then went on to inspire others to be more generous. They became a strong witness for the place of God in our lives. That is why stewardship is so important. It isn’t about the gift. It is about God.
SUMMER 2014
Here are some of my favorite ways to talk to kids about stewardship and to help their family talk with them. • Talk about your own stewardship journey. You don’t have to be a tither, you simply have to believe in God! It is okay to talk about money. After all, it is just money. • Have family pledge cards. When I lead a congregational capital appeal we normally use a family pledge card. This works for annual giving as well. Have a place on the card for the total family gift. Then, have a space that shows what the adult(s) in the household will give. Then, have a space for what gift each child will provide. Finally, have each sign it. I normally have language on the intent card sharing that it is a great time to have a family conversation about money. This forces families to talk about money and not keep it a secret. • Have children and youth speak about giving during your stewardship appeal. If encouraged to do so, kids will think about stewardship and provide deep insights that will encourage others in the congregation.
• Train confirmation mentors to have financial stewardship conversations with their students, but be careful. A conversation about the struggle of the journey to becoming a generous steward is much more fruitful than a legalistic “you must tithe” conversation. Finally, we need to recognize that children and youth are a different generation than we have seen before. The Greatest Generation gives because they love the institution. Baby Boomers love to give to something tangible (e.g. building projects). Generation X likes to give to something that benefits their own or their children’s lives. Millenials like to give to what they are involved in (e.g. Habitat). I haven’t fully figured out what motivates todays children and youth to give. My hunch is that they have a heart for those who don’t enjoy the same lifestyle as they do, so giving to help others will work. However, I have found the best way to figure out what they want to give to is to ask them.
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Mike Ward is an ordained pastor in the ELCA and served in youth and family ministry before being called to Lutheridge + Lutherock Minsitry where he served as VP of Advancement. Mike is now a Partner in the consulting firm GSB where he works with congregations and institutions in the areas of strategic planning, annual fundraising, capital campaigns, planned giving, and marketing. Mike is a Certified Fundraising Executive (CFRE) and was recently elected to the ELCA Church Council. To receive Mike’s blog, follow him on Twitter @ GSBMikeWard, or find the blog at www.gsbfr.com
CALENDAR OF EVENTS: www.elcaymnet.org/calendar Start Date
End Date
Name
Location
Contact Person
Aug 9, 2014 9:00 AM
Aug 9, 2014 4:00 PM
Ohio Statewide Youth Leaders’ Huddle
All Shepherd’s Lutheran Church, Lewis Center, OH
Beth Westphal
pastorbeth64@gmail.com
Adult Volunteers, Adult Professionals
Aug 9, 2014 9:00 AM
Aug 9, 2014 4:00 PM
SOS Practice Discipleship Training
All Shepherd, Lewis Center, Ohio
Pastor Beth Westphal
pastorbeth64@gmail.com
Adult Volunteers, Adult Professionals
Aug 9, 2014 9:00 AM
Aug 9, 2014 4:00 PM
SOS Practice Discipleship Training
All Shepherd, Lewis Center, Ohio
Pastor Beth Westphal
pastorbeth64@gmail.com
Adult Volunteers, Adult Professionals
Aug 9, 2014 9:00 AM
Aug 9, 2014 4:00 PM
SOS Practice Discipleship Training
All Shepherd, Lewis Center, Ohio
Pastor Beth Westphal
pastorbeth64@gmail.com
Adult Volunteers, Adult Professionals
Aug 9, 2014 9:00 AM
Aug 9, 2014 4:00 PM
Statewide Youth Leaders’ Huddle
All Shepherd’s Lutheran Church, Lewis Center, OH
Beth Westphal
pastorbeth64@gmail.com
Adult Volunteers, Adult Professionals
Aug 9, 2014 11:00 AM
Aug 9, 2014 2:30 PM
Pacifica Synod - Framing Failure with Forgiveness & Youth Gathering Workshop
House of Prayer Lutheran Church, Escondido, CA
Terri Robertson
terri.robertson62@gmail.com
Adult Volunteers, Adult Professionals
Aug 10, 2014 3:00 PM
Aug 10, 2014 7:00 PM
NE Iowa Framing Community
Bremwood, Waverly Iowa
Susan Entriken
susanentriken@q.com
Adult Volunteers, Adult Professionals
Aug 10, 2014 3:00 PM
Aug 10, 2014 7:00 PM
NE Iowa Framing Community
Bremwood, Waverly Iowa
Susan Entriken
susanentriken@q.com
Adult Volunteers, Adult Professionals
Aug 10, 2014 3:00 PM
Aug 10, 2014 7:00 PM
NE Iowa Framing Life Biblicaly
Bremwood Waverly Iowa
Susan Entriken
susanentriken@q.com
Adult Volunteers, Adult Professionals
Aug 10, 2014 3:00 PM
Aug 10, 2014 7:00 PM
NE Iowa Framing Life Biblicaly
Bremwood Waverly Iowa
Susan Entriken
susanentriken@q.com
Adult Volunteers, Adult Professionals
Sep 10, 2014 6:00 PM
Sep 10, 2014 7:30 PM
Framing Failure with Forgiveness
Spangler Hall St.PAul’s Lutheran Church Lutherville MD
Karen Pugatch
KEPugatch@gmail.com
Adult Volunteers, Adult Professionals, Parents
Sep 14, 2014 3:00 PM
Sep 14, 2014 6:00 PM
Allegheny Synod Framing Faith Biblically and Framing Youth
Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church, Johnstown PA
Dave Bowman
bowdavidman@gmail.com
Adult Volunteers, Adult Professionals, Parents
Sep 17, 2014 6:00 PM
Sep 17, 2014 7:30 PM
Framing the Path
Spangler Hall St.PAul’s Lutheran Church Lutherville MD
Karen Pugatch
KEPugatch@gmail.com
Adult Volunteers, Adult Professionals, Parents
Sep 21, 2014 3:00 PM
Sep 21, 2014 6:00 PM
Allegheny Synod Framing Faith Biblically and Framing Youth
Friedens Lutheran Church, Friedens PA
Dave Bowman
bowdavidman@gmail.com
Adult Volunteers, Adult Professionals, Parents
Sep 24, 2014 6:00 PM
Sep 24, 2014 7:30 PM
Framing the Path
Spangler Hall St.PAul’s Lutheran Church Lutherville MD
Karen Pugatch
KEPugatch@gmail.com
Adult Volunteers, Adult Professionals, Parents
Sep 27, 2014 8:00 AM
Sep 27, 2014 2:00 PM
Metro DC Synod - Framing Life Biblically, Framing Youth
Emmanuel Lutheran Church, Vienna, VA
Barbara Harner
barbaraharner@me.com
Adult Volunteers, Adult Professionals, Parents
Sep 27, 2014 11:30 AM
Sep 27, 2014 2:00 PM
SWWA Framing the Vision and Path
St. Mark’s Lutheran Church by The Narrows Tacoma WA
Ingelaurie Lisher
ingelaurie@smlutheran.org
Adult Volunteers, Adult Professionals
Sep 28, 2014 3:00 PM
Sep 28, 2014 6:00 PM
Allegheny Synod Framing Faith Biblically and Framing Youth
Evangelical Lutheran Church, Duncansville PA
Dave Bowman
bowdavidman@gmail.com
Adult Volunteers, Adult Professionals, Parents
Oct 9, 2014 1:00 PM
Oct 9, 2014 2:00 PM
Practice Discipleship Webinar: Framing the Vision: Seeing Things New
Online Webinar
Catherine Anderson
Catherine@elcaymnet.org
Adult Volunteers, Adult Professionals, Parents
Oct 24, 2014 11:00 AM
Oct 26, 2014 11:00 AM
Practice discipleship retreat
Luther Springs
Kenny Champagne
Kenny@ststephen.org
Adult Volunteers, Adult Professionals, Parents
Jan 29, 2015 12:00 PM
Jan 30, 2015 3:00 PM
Extravaganza 2015 Intensive Care Courses
Marriott, Detroit, Michigan
E-Team
todd@elcaymnet.org
Adult Volunteers, Adult Professionals
Jan 30, 2015 6:00 PM
Feb 2, 2015 11:00 AM
Extravaganza 2015
Marriott, Detroit, Michigan
E-Team
todd@elcaymnet.org
Adult Volunteers, Adult Professionals
Jul 15, 2015 6:00 PM
Jul 19, 2015 11:00 AM
ELCA Youth Gathering
Detroit, Michigan
ELCA Gathering Office
gathering@elca.org
Sr High Youth, Adult Volunteers, Adult Professionals
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SUMMER 2014
3rd Tuesday Conversations are monthly gatherings of friends. They are great continuing education events. They are opportunities to hear from, and interact with experts in the field. 3TC conversations are free for Network members. Our schedule: Stay tuned at www.elcaymnet.org/3tc for Fall schedule!
Our conversations: We use online webinars. You can log in to a special webinar site and listen to the conversation while watching images on your screen. Or, you can watch on the computer while calling in and listening on your phone. You will have opportunities to ask questions as well.
Times: All 3TC conversations begin at:
2:00 p.m. Eastern, 1:00 p.m. Central
12:00 p.m. Mountain, 11:00 a.m. Pacific
Join the conversation! www.elcaymnet.org/3tc
Here’s our belief: There is an amazing amount of talent, expertise and skill within our community.
open source youth ministry
And we have all developed resources for use in our congregations. Many of us are willing to share those resources that we have created. MartinsList is a place to do that. Here, we can share our work with each other...and can create a community of mutual support in our ministry. It’s open source ministry.
www.MartinsList.org
It’s MartinsList.
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THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT! THRIVENT CHOICE The Network is grateful to its individual donors and organizational partners for supporting its mission and vision for the future. The Network is funded in 3 ways: Extravaganza fees cover approximately 2/3 of the cost of the event. The remaining 1/3 is covered by organizational and partnership gifts.
Thrivent Members Can Now Choose
N AGA RAV EXT
The Network! The ELCA Youth Ministry Network is now a recipient of Thrivent Choice
extravaganza
dollars! Folks who have access to these
IST
Funding for developing our future vision comes from financial gifts from individuals, and organizations.
ION
operating expenses
RAT
Network operational costs are covered by membership dues.
REG
ZA
Connect Journal • Staff • Publicity • Etc...
MEMBERSHIP DUES
dollars can go to the Thrivent choice page and designate the Network as the recipient of your dollars! It’s a great way to support the Network! To make a donation, please go to:
These individuals have made a special gift during the current fiscal year to help further the mission of the Network. We are grateful for their support!
www.thrivent.com/thriventchoice . Log in, and from there you can search for the ELCA Youth Ministry Network in the listing of approved organizations, and
Sharon Bockelman
Ingelaurie Lisher
Brenda Bos
Tony Magturo
Laurie Carson
Janelle Miller
David Ellingson
Darcy Mittelstaedt
Megan Floyd
Jeremy Myers
Laurie Hoium
Chris Okey
John Hulden
Brent S. Palochonski
Lynn Hunstad
Karen Pugatch
Greg Kaufmann
Gordon Straw
Annette Kezbers
Megan Vaughan
Mark Lepper
Karen Wagner
Beth Lewis
Larry Wagner
Laurie Line
David Wolfe
make your designation! Thank you to all who have chosen the Network for your donations so far!
These organizations have taken the extra step to become Network partners this year to provide support for the Network. We are grateful for their support!
Gold Partners: Augsburg College ELCA Youth Gathering iGivings Lutheran Retreats, Camps & Conferences Luther Seminary Mission Investment Fund Thrivent Financial for Lutherans
Silver Partners: Augsburg Fortress Publishing Luther Crest Bible Camp Lutheran Outdoors in South Dakota Lutheran Colleges.org Lutheridge+Lutherock Ministries GSB - Mike Ward Stewardship
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Sky Ranch Lutheran Camp Trinity Lutheran College Trinity Lutheran Seminary Wartburg Theological Seminary Youth Encounter Youth Leadership, Inc.
SUMMER 2014
A VIEW FROM SOMEWHERE ELSE
by George Baum
MONEY You’ve probably heard people say that money is the root of all evil. And, while that may be true, it’s certainly not in the Bible. I suppose the best we can say is that the phrase is a misquote of something that actually is in the Bible. In Paul’s First Letter to Timothy, he writes (depending on your translation) that the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil. When you think about it, this is a far cry from “Money is the root of all evil.” And that distinction matters, because money itself is not evil. (Money doesn’t kill people; people kill people . . . over money.) Back when I had my own little fiefdom of a parish, it was clear to me that my parishioners were not rolling around on the floor in piles of money like Scrooge McDuck. They were blue-collar types, who mostly worked with their hands, and who often made the decision whether or not they could come to Bible Study based on how much gas they had left that week. When the topic of money came up in the Lectionary, I always knew that I needed to make my preaching fit their circumstances. They were not investing in hedge funds; they were not squandering their money on multiple cars they couldn’t drive; they were certainly not stingy. They were trying to make ends meet, and there never seemed to be enough rope.
And at some point I realized, you don’t have to be rich to be obsessed with money. In fact, some of the people most obsessed with money are the people who don’t have it. (As my friend Dan used to say, his only problem with being addicted to cigarettes was when he ran out.) Paul’s warning to Timothy, and Jesus’ numerous cautions to his disciples (e.g. Mt 6, Lk 12) are not about having too much money. The admonitions are against being obsessed with money. Sure, there are passages about things like camels and a needle’s eye, and blessed are the poor, and so forth, but the real lesson is in the lilies of the valley and the sparrows in the nest. Do not worry about tomorrow, and what you will eat and what you will drink. Clearly, these are things that are regressive in a monetary way (the rich have no such worries). Counterintuitive as it may be, the poor are more apt to be obsessed with money than are the rich. (Cf my friend Dan.) My point is not about money, when it comes down to it. What I hear Jesus saying more often than not is this: no matter how much money you have or don’t have, your focus should be on trusting Jesus. If you are rich, you need to trust Jesus to get a camel through the eye of a needle. If you are poor, you need to trust that Jesus knows what you truly need.
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And my two cents? Well, to be honest, given those two options, I think it might be more relaxing to be poor.
George Baum is one half of the band Lost And Found (speedwood.com), and is also a supply priest in the Episcopal Church, the father of two, and the husband of one.
ELCA Youth Ministry Network 150 Oakwood Lane Owatonna, Mn 55060
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