Our ONE FAMILY | ONE MISSION capital campaign is seeking gifts and commitments to give that are “over and above” the members’ regular giving that supports the annual ministry plan. How does a person or family decide on what amount they will give?
A story comes to mind. During one church’s capital campaign, a church member came up to the pastor on Sunday and said, “I have already decided on my campaign gift. Here, I brought it with me and I hope it is the right amount.” As an envelope was handed to the pastor, he replied, “I am sure it is the right gift if it represents you.” The member then paused and took back the envelope saying, “I will have to think about that some more.”
The next Sunday the member again approached the pastor and said, “Pastor, here is my campaign gift. I hope it is the right amount.” The pastor replied again, “I am sure it is the right gift if it represents you.” The member, looking a little frustrated, took back at the envelope and said, “Well I really do have to think about this and I might as well pray about it too.”
On the third Sunday the member came up to the pastor, handed him an envelope and said, “Pastor, here is my gift and believe me, this gift represents me!”
Deciding to give an “over and above” gift is a challenging process. It requires thought and prayer and finally action. No effort will be made to tell any person what he or she should commit. There are, however, some questions that might be helpful in determining one’s part.
“Have I asked God to direct my decision?”
“Does this amount give an accurate reflection of who I am and what my resources are?”
“How does this amount represent a sacrifice for me?”