3.05.2019 - We Are All In!

On Sunday I announced some exciting and challenging news to those of you who were in attendance. For those that weren’t there I would like to update you. At our planning and zoning hearing on Thursday Feb 21st, we were told that even though we met code and executed what the city asked of us, the planning and zoning commission did not believe our parking plan was adequate. They offered us a continuance to try and come up with a secondary plan and suggested purchasing the lot to our south that is currently dirt and turn it into a parking lot for our use. Our next hearing is April 4thto present them another plan or to communicate that we will not be moving forward with the purchase of this building or land. 

What did the elders decide?
After much prayer and deliberation we have decided to try and purchase the dirt lot to the south of the building that we are currently under contract for. We believe God wants us to take this next step for a couple of reasons. First, we discussed the financial implications of this with The Solomon Foundation and they have agreed to finance us for this extra expense. Secondly, we have sought wisdom from other pastors that have taken similar steps, they have encouraged us that this is a next step they believe we can take. Thirdly, no matter what future building we purchase, unless it is a church building, parking will most likely be an issue. This property has dirt that is not developed yet and can be utilized so that parking is never a concern moving forward. Lastly, there is a church here in the valley that is seriously considering and praying about helping us financially as a gift to help us take this next step. To see another church support another church is very inspiring and encouraging to us as an eldership and helps us us see what we think is God’s hand in this journey we are on. 
 
How are we going to afford this?
As I discussed on Sunday, with the expected cost of the building, improvements and now purchase and upgrade of the land we need ten new families to start tithing. If we use the median household income for Meridian as a projected tithe amount ($525/month) that will cover the cost of the increase in building costs we will incur when we move in. 
 
What are you asking?
We are asking you to pray about starting to tithe and make a commitment to support your church in this huge next step. This will enable us to put money away in savings now for future expenses, which will lead to greater overall budget health, and in addition it will help fund dream initiatives we have for our church in the next year. I’m looking forward to sharing those with you in detail on Sunday. When we move into the building those dollars will then go towards our increase in mortgage. 

I don’t make that much money, what should I do?
Some of you may tithe (10%) and it may not be that much ($525/month) and others will tithe and it will be more than that amount. We are trusting that God will bring the adequate dollars to allow us to afford this building. Your willingness to trust God with your finances is the first step and we believe God is going to work out all the specifics for the amount needed.
 
Why a building?
When we started the year 2018 we prayed and from your feedback and what we sensed from the Holy Spirit we believed it was time for us to find a permanent home. We searched for nine months before believing that this was the building God wanted us to pursue. Through the collective gathering of our church, the people, this building could become the stake in the ground outpost from which ministry, worship and blessing extends to the rest of the community, just like our hearts and hands do through our own individual bodies. This building will not define us, but it can become a tremendous tool in helping further the vision & mission of our church. We exist to reach the world for Jesus, one person at a time. This building can be a great next step in seeing more people come to know Jesus and be discipled into the likeness of Jesus. 
 
Lastly, I just want to say that I have been overwhelmed this week with God’s goodness and His work in your lives already with stories of people who are taking next steps. Some of you have decided to get rid of debt so that you can give more and some have already started to tithe from the encouraging and challenging words received in this sermon series. I want you to know that your humility that you have displayed in listening to God through us and trusting God with your finances has been inspiring, moving and soul stirring. When the church comes together in unity, God’s Kingdom and reigning power comes crashing down onto earth. Thank you for going with us on this journey.
 
If you have any questions, please don’t be afraid to email me or call me. Looking forward to seeing you next Sunday and as always, own the mission this week!

"One Person at a Time,"

Justin Jordan

Lead Pastor