April 2007

“It's Time to Plant Again!”

"It's time to Plant Again? 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. 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."

We want to keep a strong outreach and discipleship ministry going. We must continue the regular financial and ministry giving that sets the foundation for the next years. This is not a new issue for a thriving congregation. In fact in 2002 I wrote this note:

"In the last few years we have expanded our staff and ministry. We have seen our budget grow from $67,000 in 1994 to $170,150.00. That sounds like a big change, but you must also remember that this committed group gave $110,500.00 to the church in 1993, when you include giving to the building fund. We have been growing consistently. However, when ministry is going well there is a temptation to stand by and watch it all happen. It's easier to say, "Things are going OK. They don't need my help." That idea is far from the truth." Your regular stewardship of money, time and talent 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."

Just like a farmer has to replant every year, (except for rocks and weeds, they seem to come back without planting) so ministry planting comes year after year. This years planting revolves around new staff.

We have begun a process of searching for a new youth director. In the next few weeks we will begin talking with some of the applicants. We ask for your prayers as we seek the best person to join our ministry team. We as a congregation have decided to keep a strong ministry to children and youth. It is important for you to know that we need your increased giving to make that happen. The first part of this year we have been meeting our current expenses but have not met our budget that includes the second staff salary. It could be just a month or two before we hire a new staff person. It would be great to expand this giving as we move forward.

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 your planter, we are heading to the field.

Pastor Craig