August 28, 2023

We ended the Sunday worship service with a business meeting to discuss the ABC project.  The main questions centered around how that would look, pastorally and financially.    At this point, the plan would be that Pastor Ken would take the point at Ashland Bible Church.  He would still be an SSB pastor and still at SSB weekly but  now with a focus on leading, revitalizing, and growing ABC.   He would be "face" for new folks on a Sunday morning at ABC.   ABC has some money set aside and the elders are not asking for additional budgeted money at this point.  However, the money would be brought into SSB's account so that we could get a handle on their budget.  Thus, it would be handled as a  separate line-item.   Those that give at ABC and those that give at SSB would see their deposits enter into one account.  Eventually, the plan would be that, as ABC is strengthened, new accounts will be opened and their finances would operate independently.  

There did seem to be concerns about how the money works.  I've always found it helpful in my offering money through the years to remember that I'm not giving to a church or a ministry.  My offering is to the Lord.  Of course we want to be sure that the organization is godly and upright.  But, when I write the check, although it may say "Standing Stone Bible Church," it is going to the Lord.   I trust Him to use it to His good pleasure and thank Him for the blessing of giving.   Similarly, we need not be concerned about ABC and SSB being combined for the current season.   We give to the Lord first and foremost.  

And Pastor Ken?  The first question asked was "Do you feel God's calling to go to ABC?"   His answer was "yes."   Now is the time for each of us to ask, "What can I do to encourage one another and lift the church body in Gretna & Ashland up?"  I greatly appreciated the final two "questions" which were really more like exhortations and excitement for where the Lord is leading us.   How can you help?   Be in prayer; we plan but the Lord directs our steps.   Let the elders know your concerns or other questions.   Be an encourager.   Ask where you can be involved - at ABC or SSB.  Be in prayer; note the "sandwich" of prayer in 1 Thess. 5:16-18... we begin with "rejoice" and end with "give thanks," all the while "praying without ceasing" in the middle.