Yesterday, we began a new sermon series called Generous. Also yesterday, the Seattle area was hit with a couple inches of snow, which is a couple inches more than the citizens of our fair city can handle. For those of you who braved the weather, thanks for coming to church yesterday. I hope and pray you made it home safely.

For those of you unable to make it, part one of Generous is now available online. The entire series is only two weeks long, but we’ll be podcasting it in four segments between now and January 5. In the meantime, I’d like to summarize some of the timely information that Pastor Mark and I shared at the end of yesterday’s sermon.

1. What is our current financial state? (Jul–Nov)

• Total revenue = $4.6 million
• Total expenses = $4.8 million
• Net deficit = $200,000
• We need $1.2 million this month in order to end the year flush.

Millions of dollars sounds like a lot of money. It is a lot of money. But we’re now a church of 7,000 people or more, which requires a lot of work. To read more about the philosophy, accountability, and policies related to money at Mars Hill Church, download this month’s Stewardship Update.

2. What is our economic plan for 2009? (Jan–Jun)

• Reduce budget and scale back
• Budget giving = $210,000/week
• Continue to fund church planting and Vision Nationals

Proverbs 22:3 says, “The prudent sees danger and hides himself, but the simple go on and suffer for it.” Seattle’s diversified economy has allowed us to fare somewhat better than other parts of the country, nevertheless we anticipate additional hardship next year and plan to proceed with caution and wisdom. Our budget will be scaled back in order to live within our means and not run up a large deficit. While reducing your budget is always a bit painful, in many ways it is a great opportunity for spiritual growth and greater maturity. We’re excited to continue to point people to Jesus and his all-sufficient grace.

3. What do we want for you—the people of Mars Hill?

• Transformed hearts, transformed lives
• To sign up for free financial coaching, email money [at] marshillchurch.org.

The world has placed its hope in precarious man-made financial institutions. This hope is ultimately doomed, even if the economy improves. We want you to live your life blessed by true hope, true security, and true peace in Jesus. If you struggle with building and living on a budget, giving regularly to the church or getting out of debt I’d strongly encourage you to take advantage of our free and confidential financial coaching ministry.

4. How can people give to Mars Hill Church?

• Online (secure website)
• On Sunday (during communion or in the foyer)
• Mail (free envelopes available)
• Automatic giving through ACH (download the form)
• Other (stocks, property, and other donations)

ACH giving (automatic withdrawals from your checking account) is a great way to give because 1) It’s good for the giver—ACH provides clockwork accountability, and 2) It’s good for the church—ACH requires less overhead to process.

If you have any additional giving-related questions, please email giving [at] marshillchurch.org. Next Sunday (12/21), we will discuss more specifics regarding the sale of The City, individual and campus giving, our benevolence plans, and our church’s financial systems for accountability.

Drive safe and stay warm, Seattle.