What Would Happen if the Church Tithed?

I recently came across an interesting article out of Relevant Magazine, asking this very question. As a missionary supported by the generosity of the Church, it perked my interest. Check it out here.

Some interesting numbers:

• Tithers make up only 10-25 percent of a normal congregation. 
• Only 5 percent of the U.S. tithes, with 80 percent of Americans only giving 2 percent of their income. 
• Christians are only giving at 2.5 percent per capita, while during the Great Depression they gave at a 3.3 percent rate. 

The article unpacks some huge things that could be accomplished if the church tithed a full 10% ; some pretty staggering statistics.

What it hit on that was most important, though, was that giving is not necessarily a money issue as much as it is a heart issue. It's hard to trust the Lord with our money and when Jesus tells us "where your treasure is, your heart will be also", it brings conviction. Aimee and I tithe ourselves and it's not always an easy check to write.

“Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” 

2 Corinthians 9:7

I know that sending in a gift to GCM each month can be hard to let go of sometimes. I understand the pressures of finances and I want to thank you for giving cheerfully and for putting your treasure in furthering the kingdom. I don't take your gifts lightly and do my best to fulfill the responsibilities handed to me as a missionary here at Mizzou. Your support means the world to me.

Chris

Rock Staff Retreat 2013

We were really suffering for the Lord this past week in Colorful Colorado.

The Rock Staff & (most of our) Associate Staff traveled over 800 miles out to Estes Park, Colorado for our annual Staff Retreat. We reconnected, prayed and dreamed through our vision and strategy for bringing the Gospel to Mizzou, planned through our first few weeks in the Fall, prayed some more and were counseled by a pastor friend through connection as a staff team.

And what better way to team build than to go white water rafting? We ventured north to Ft. Collins and were taken on an 8-mile run by one of our Colorado-native students (who doubles as a raft guide), Casey, on the Poudre River. After five of us ended up swimming in class 3 and 4 rapids at any given point, we survived and have a story to share as a team.

Mostly importantly, we sought the Lord and he met us in a big way in Colorado. I've come back refreshed, focused and beginning the final weeks of summer dedicated to seeking the Lord.

Join me in praying for provision in raising $245 in regular monthly gifts and in preparation for the Fall.

God bless,
Chris

July 2013 Prayer Letter

On the eve of our Staff Retreat, I am excited to share with you some support updates and what has been going on here at The Summer Rock as well as some new associate staff!

Take care,
Chris