Affection Over Obligation

Our third value as a church is “Affection Over Obligation.” What does that mean?

It means we want the “sweet spot” of our family life as a church to begin with what we love doing rather than what we have to be doing. Doesn’t that sound kinda risky…what about all the stuff that “has to get done”? There will always be those things: the floors will always need swept, the toilets will always need cleaned, and the bills will always need to get paid. But here’s the thing, there are actually people that God has gifted to do these things…and who actually like doing them.

Rick Weaver is a good example. Rick is our janitor. Just the other day I was talking to him on the phone, and he told me, “You know, my favorite account is our church.” I love knowing that every Saturday I get to come out and serve, doing something I’m good at for my friends and family at the church…and I don’t even get paid for it!”

Colleen Thorn is another. Colleen is our treasurer. She does all the hard and nuanced work that comes with paying the bills, making sure all money are in the right accounts, makes sure the budget balances out. When her term was up, she asked if she could do another because she likes doing it and feels like it is her way to help and serve.

Both Rick and Colleen are good examples of our value affection over obligation. They illustrate why we are willing to take the risk of starting with affection over obligation knowing that often times our affection leads to obligation.

Click below to listen in as we explore one passage matches that flow: talents, affection, obligation!

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