08-27-24

ECCLESIOLOGICAL ETCHINGS
August 27, 2024
Recently, I had someone who came by the church during the week and asked for a tour. As we walked around, the question was asked, “Who pays for all this?” It would have been nice to say that we are financed by a money tree planted in a hidden corner of the property. Or maybe all the money trickles down from our denominational headquarters. Of course, neither one of those is correct. The person on the tour was a bit surprised when I explained that the buildings were built and have been maintained mostly by the generosity of those who are committed to the vision and mission of Cypress Creek Christian Church. Over the years, we have received gifts from those outside the church, a handful of grants, and some kind community gifts during our rebuild after Hurricane Harvey. Of course, the building of the buildings is one thing, while maintaining those buildings is a whole different thing. And that includes monthly utilities, insurance, repairs, and, of course, staffing. With everything Cypress Creek Christian Church has experienced in the last decade, it is quite extraordinary for us to be where we are. I’m not suggesting that we are rolling in the money, but we continue to find a way. As we look to 2025, I do have some concerns, especially in regard to property and liability insurance. Churches have become some of the hardest-hit entities in the last three years, and though we are searching for cheaper insurance, I would estimate that more than 15% of our budget will go toward our insurance policies. It is not one of the items in the church budget that you can get people excited about, though after Hurricane Harvey, I was thankful for our Flood Insurance. It sort of saved the day. In the Book of Hebrews, we are told, “Do not neglect to do good, and to share what you have, for such sacrifice is pleasing to God” (Hebrews 16). I think about all the sacrifices that were offered for the purpose of working toward the fulfillment of our vision and mission, and today I want to give thanks for all those past and present whose faithfulness to God has been pleasing to God.

For all who continue to do good through the sharing of their gifts, often sacrificially, we offer our praise and thanks to you, Amazing God, for you are the inspiration for such generosity. Amen.