07-30-26

ECCLESIOLOGICAL ETCHINGS
July 30, 2026
The new roof has finally started! Yippee! Of course, this means there are a lot of challenges in getting around the campus. It should be open for Sunday, but just know that there might be a path or two closed off. Early in my ministry, I never thought I’d be excited about getting a new roof, but today, I am rather ecstatic about the thought of not having stained ceiling tiles in the Activity Room. We all know the church is not the building, but the people. Yet as a church that owns a number of buildings and opens those buildings to the community, we want to be as hospitable as possible. And part of being hospitable is making sure things look and feel welcoming. Last Friday, we had more than 550 community people on our campus, including 350 who were here to experience the Bush Library Children’s Program. In 1 Peter 4:10, we read, “Like good stewards of the manifold grace of God, serve one another with whatever gift each of you has received.” The word Steward in the Greek is two words: house and rule, often translated as manager of the household. But here, it is one who serves as an administrator of sacred matters/things. It is not necessarily about protecting, but making sure such things are utilized for the sake of God and God’s Kin(g)dom. As a faith community, we have been entrusted with these sacred buildings, which are gifts that we are to steward for the sake of others. We don’t own them, only utilize them for the glory of God. And something as simple as providing families with 90 minutes of enjoyment and education during the summer months is a wonderful gift. On more than one occasion, I have had a parent come to me and say, “Thank you so much for providing this program.” I quickly correct them as the program was a partnership with the Bush Library, and we only provide the space. Yet without the space, there is no program. We might incur some costs, like utilities, paper products, and a little extra cleaning. However, I think most people at Cypress Creek Christian Church would say that it is money well spent. That’s what it means to be a good steward of God’s manifold grace.

You have gifted us beyond measure, O God who is the Source of all good gifts, and we offer our praise and gratitude for the abundance you pour forth. We also recognize that with great gifts comes great responsibility, and in the case of these buildings, the responsibility we have is to serve you by serving our neighbors. Help us to be aware of all the ways we can bless the larger community with the gifts entrusted to us. Amen.