I saw some numbers the other day that were purported to be the typical church budget. It showed over 50% of the budget going to compensation of church staff and pastors, about 20% of the budget going to mortgages and bills on properties, and then the remainder of the budget went to things that were nominally or moderately ministry-related. That is, frankly, repulsive.
What if we lived in a world where the community came to the church when it had needs rather than to the government?
What if the local hospital needed a new piece of equipment and the local churches provided the funds to purchase it?
What if the local churches went together to build a new pool and play area for the community’s kids?
What if the local churches built homes for people who were homeless?
What if, when youth delinquency went up, the local churches built a new skating park and donated it to the community?
What if the local churches took the responsibilty for cleaning trash from the streets and byways?
What if, when the city’s waste management system was in need of new equipment, the church went to the community government and provided funds?
What if, when many non-English speaking immigrants enter a community, the local churches took on the responsibility of teaching English as a Second Language courses?
Can you begin to see how we can be the Kingdom here and now? Can you dream with me what a difference this would make?
Oh Daddy, the King of Heaven, may the reality of your Kingdom be shown in the here and now through the work of your bride, the Church, just as it is in heaven! Matthew 6:9-10.