A Spiritual Issue First

by Kristi Meyer

“All the church ever talks about is money.” It’s a common church stereotype, and it might feel that way at St. John’s right now with our campus expansion project and capital campaign. However, nothing could be further from the truth. Yes, Declaring His Praises does have a goal of raising $2.5M (or more)—but that’s far from the only goal.

The Declaring His Praises campaign theme comes from 1 Peter 2:9, where the Apostle Peter first tells us who we are: a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession. Peter then follows this up with our calling: to declare the praises of God. “At the base of this building initiative effort is the desire to glorify God through expanding our Gospel ministry,” explains Pastor Joel Leyrer. “In other words, we seek to declare his praises both within our community and before a watching world.”

Church-wide growth isn’t the only goal of this campaign, though. There’s also a goal of personal growth for each and every member of St. John’s—a goal shared by Jeff Davis, our campaign consultant and the president of Cornerstone Stewardship Ministry. “A Gospel-based fund appeal is all about raising the hearts of God’s people,” says Jeff. “The means by which we raise hearts is through the Word of God. When the hearts of God’s people are raised, only wonderful and amazing things follow!”

To that end, an intentional focus on spiritual growth will be a key part of this campaign—and Pastor Leyrer sees the season of Lent as a perfect time for that focus. “Lent is dedicated to remembering what Jesus underwent for us and the sacrifice he willingly made so we might live with him forever,” he says. “While Christ’s generosity toward us can never be matched, Lent is an appropriate time to consider our response to this wondrous love.” In addition to thoughts and prayers incorporated into our Lenten worship services, resources will also be provided for in-home use. Through these special devotions and prayers, you are encouraged to reflect on the grace God has shown to you and then consider your response to this grace. Mark Naumann, the Declaring His Praises

Emphasis Director, sees this reflection as a key facet in a God-pleasing attitude of stewardship. “God has provided all of our earthly needs, and we have learned that our giving should be proportional, planned, and cheerful,” explains Mark. “When considering the blessings God has showered on us, our giving should be a joyful response to his love for us.”

When I stop and intentionally think about how God has blessed me, I come up with a list so long that it takes my breath away. I’m sure the same is true for you. Such a list merits thanks and praise to a gracious God— thanks and praise that can result in monetary offerings. But in the end, “Stewardship appeals are a spiritual issue first and a thank offering second,” says Jeff.

Over the next six weeks, we’ll keep that spiritual issue front and center, and we ask that you do the same. During this Lenten season, reflect on the many blessings God has shown to you. Then, if you are willing, please consider showing your gratitude for these blessings through a campaign contribution.

How Can You Get Involved?

Offer prayers of thanksgiving to God for the many ministry opportunities he places before us. Then pray boldly and confidently that God will bless our campaign by allowing to expand our campus and engage in the joyful task of Declaring His Praises.

Stay Connected

As mentioned on Mission & Ministry Sunday, a number of workshops and small-group presentations are planned for late February through mid-March. At these presentations, we will explain more about the campaign, our campus expansion plans, and other opportunities for giving. We hope and pray that every St. John’s member attends one of these presentations to educate themselves on the campaign.