I started day 2 of the AND Conference sitting under the leadership of Don Reynolds. Don leads all things arts and community at our Elkhart multisite. Today Don's topic is: How to Operate on No Budget. I know Don's heart so I thought I knew what to expect. But, again - I was inspired by Don's heart for Jesus and his grasp of living with an abundance mindset.
Acknowledging the significant contrasts between equipment, stage, staff, and budget compared to our Granger hub, Don cast vision that reminded everyone to:
- keep the main thing the main thing: it really is about people
- God's been working already with what we have. It's a gross error to think that the only way God will continue to work is if we have more.
- We're called to be stewards, to be grateful stewards, thankful to be included in his agenda. A grateful, abundant mindset allows us to serve with joy.
I serve with Don. We're on the same team. He's my friend. And the thankful, abundant mindset he presented in this morning's session couldn't have been more authentic. It's who Don is. It's how he leads our teams in Elkhart. I was insprired again today sitting under his teaching.
By the way - we have a budget for ministry in Elkhart. Our people there give generously. We have a budget. But, like any church, any team we're more than capable of dreaming of more. The charge is to be responsible with what we have. Big budget, small budget, no budget.
In Don alone we have more than we could dream about in any size budget. We can't pay him what he deserves. Ever. His pursuit of Jesus humbles me. His leadership inspires me. His friendship is priceless.
Count your blessings. Count your wins. Be grateful for your people who lead and make ministry happen - regardless of the budget.
