April 2005

“It's Time to Plant!”

"Time to Plant? What are you talking about Craig? It?s too early to plant. The ground is hard as ice. In fact, it is ice. It would be impossible to plant anything in these fields. But forget about the field conditions, have you forgotten, we don't live in a tropical climate. This is Minnesota, land of the freeze, home of the Brrrr. A good solid freeze can hit us any time till June. How are you going to plant now? What's wrong with you. Were you born in the city or something."

Hold on folks, you've trained me better than that. Yes I was born in a city but I'm not talking about planting crops. I am talking about planting seeds for ministry.

We are at an important crossroads in Christ's ministry here at Community. As a church we have set the vision for our church and are excited for the future. We have set our goals high for growth in impacting this community for Christ. Our mission statement says it well.

"Community Covenant Church is a tri-county ministry located in Upsala, Minnesota. Its mission is to glorify God by encouraging new life in Christ and spiritual growth in the lives of the people we touch."

With a dedicated building committee, we are finalizing our building plans for phase one. It's exciting to think about ground breaking later this summer. However, in order for us to move forward we will all have to roll up our sleeves. Our strong commitment is not to a building, it is to the ministry that God has called us to. We must continue the regular giving that sets the foundation for the future.

In the last few years we have decided to expand our staff and ministry. With Rocky now on full time, the youth Ministry continues to change lives and keep growing. We have just come off a 40 Days of Purpose campaign that has been exciting to be a part of. The emphasis in getting us to see our purpose and getting involved as God directs can be life changing. The small group emphasis was especially exciting to be a part of. Some groups are looking to keep on meeting this spring.

We are increasing our visitation program. An Outreach Commission and Prayer Commission are now being reinstated and we look forward to the fruit of their work.

Our stewardship is also moving full steam ahead. We have seen our budget grow from $67,000 in 1994 to $ 228,000.00 this year. That sounds like a big change, but you must also remember that in 1993 that committed group gave $110,500.00, when you include giving to the building fund. Nothing is impossible with Christ.

To God be the Glory great things he has done. Please know that not everything is perfect, but I am greatly encouraged by the movement in God's people. However, there is always a risk when ministry is going well, there is a temptation to stand by and watch it all happen. It's easy to say, "Things are going OK. They don't need my help." That idea is far from the truth.

Your regular stewardship of time, talent and money are needed more than ever before. It's a challenge for all of us to increase just a little more. It might be that God is calling you to work in children's or youth ministry. You might feel the nudge to outreach or care for the sick and shut-ins. Perhaps you will be looking for a new way to use your skills and gifts. You may be looking to increase your giving. Whatever it is, I hope you will begin this month. If you have any questions on how to get involved, check with me .

We know that the possibilities in Christ are unlimited. Will you pray and ask God to show you how you may help to expand the ministry. It's time to plant so God may reap the harvest in the future. Grab you planter, we are heading to the field.

Pastor Craig