One key thing that churches could learn from non-profits is how to celebrate success to accelerate generosity. Recently a church contacted me about help with giving. As I do in almost every situation I began the meeting by asking them about their church. After about ten minutes of sharing amazing stories of how they are ministering to their community, the Director of Finance said, “We don’t like to brag but we have accomplished some amazing things.”
“Are you all Buckeye fans?” I asked. The church I was talking to was in the Columbus, Ohio area where Ohio State University resides. The Ohio State Buckeyes are one of the premier football programs in America with one of the best winning records of all time. Everyone at the table laughed as they were indeed Buckeye fans. So I then asked…
“Which school does the top rated high school quarterback prospect in the state of Ohio sign with, Cincinnati or Ohio State?” The answer is obvious. He will sign with the school that has the best winning record giving him the chance to play on the largest stage of college football. Here is my point with this illustration…
Winning teams attract winning players. The same is true of churches. People want to go to a church that is doing something!
So, this means it is vital that you celebrate the success you see in missions and ministry. I always say, “Get a story, work your story, tell people about your story and people will give to support that story.” Your story is the work of missions and ministry. It is what you are doing to advance the Kingdom of God.
My friends and fellow colleagues, Jim Sheppard and Chris Willard wrote this about celebrating in their book, “Contagious Generosity,” “What you choose to celebrate most often in your church will eventually become what is most valued by your church.” Amen! They then quote Pastor Bob Coy of Calvary Chapel who believes that intentional congregational celebration challenges leaders and members to change their attitudes about giving from a minimalist, 10 percent approach to a wholehearted surrender of all we possess. He offers four insights.
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By celebrating the cause of Christ, we place our priorities with his kingdom rather than our personal gain.
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By celebrating integrity in finances, we keep ourselves from abusing resources.
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By celebrating generosity, the church comes together to see what giving does for the kingdom, enjoying the privilege of obedience together.
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Finally, by celebrating frugality, we set aside as many resources as we can for God’s work, storing up our treasure in God’s work rather than in personal gain.
Again, Amen!
So, back to my Buckeye friends. I encouraged them to start telling their story of what giving has accomplished in Jesus name. It is not bragging when it is a fact! It is not bragging when you give God the glory. And it is not bragging when you thank your people for making your stories possible. Share your successes through every means possible. When you do that you are helping people connect the dots between how a dollar given to your church helps fuel the amazing work of your church.
If you want to increase giving celebrate success and you will accelerate generosity!
Mark Brooks – The Stewardship Coach