Shark Tank
Digging Deeper: A Lenten Study of the Gospel of Luke - Now available on Amazon.com
As Christians, most of us do a lot to help those in need. Can we do better? Of course, we can, and I believe Jesus would say specifically to us: Be aware and be aggressive when it comes to helping others. Giving generously can also make a huge difference for Christ within your church and community.
I once dreamed I was on the television show: “Shark Tank.” One of the “Shark Tank” investors (I think it was “Mr. Wonderful) had me on the show and asked: “If I wanted to invest a million dollars in a church, why would I choose your church?”
I found myself stammering: “Why are you asking?”
He said: “I want to invest in a church with a future. When you convince me that your church claims a clear vision of reaching others for Jesus Christ and you are undertaking bold initiatives toward fulfilling that vision, I will be proud to invest in your church.”
“So, you want to invest in us because we are a large church?” I answer.
“No,” he quickly responds. “There are many small churches with a wonderful future.” Then he paused. “However, a small church with a big vision won’t stay small very long.”
“Are you looking for a young church?”
“No!” he smiled. “We old folks can make things happen but an old church with a bold vision for the future won’t stay old. Young people will flock to a church like that.”
“Ok, so maybe you want a church with stirring music and passionate preaching?”
He answered, “Debates over worship styles and preaching usually start arguments and divide churches. Churches with a future find many creative ways to express their love for God.”
Frustrated, I finally asked the right question: “So what is your definition of a church with a future?”
“Ah,” he said. “A church with a future would meet four basic criteria:”
· Vision: They have a God inspired vision.
· Plan: They have a clear plan for the church and each member.
· Passion: They are passionate and willing to do whatever it takes.
· Fruit: A fruit tree with no fruit is useless. Show me the results.
“Wow! You’re asking for a lot.” I spoke.
“I have a right to ask for a lot,” he answered. “One million dollars is a lot of money, but this is about more than money. A church with a future won’t really need my million dollars.”
“They won’t?” I asked. Now I was confused.
He laughed and then added. “Of course, they would love receiving the money but a church which meets the four criteria I outlined will have money, leadership, volunteers and more importantly…” He paused for a moment and smiled. “That church will have faith in the God who will provide the resources they need. Not only would I be thrilled to invest my million dollars. I would join that church and give my time, my resources, my future and most of all, my life.”
Suppose for a moment that you and your church were invited to appear on Shark Tank, and you had the opportunity to ask for a one-million-dollar investment. How would you justify that your church was worth it?