The Bible is a rich source of wisdom that can guide us in every aspect of life, including how we invest in our communities. As Christians, we are called to be stewards of the resources God has entrusted to us, and this extends to the well-being of our neighborhoods. We will explore the principles of biblical wisdom for community investment, with a special spotlight on Antioch Church’s inspiring journey of community assessment and the creation of a thriving soccer tournament.
Listening to the Community: Proverbs 18:13 teaches us, “To answer before listening—that is folly and shame.” Antioch Church exemplified this principle by conducting a Neighborhood 360 Assessment. Listening to the community’s needs and desires is the first step in wise community investment.
Seeking the Welfare of the City: In Jeremiah 29:7, we are instructed, “Seek the welfare of the city where I have sent you into exile, and pray to the Lord on its behalf, for in its welfare you will find your welfare.” Antioch Church’s efforts to create a soccer tournament aligned with this principle, as it sought to benefit the well-being of the neighborhood and city.
Generosity and Blessing: In 2 Corinthians 9:11, we are reminded, “You will be enriched in every way to be generous in every way, which through us will produce thanksgiving to God.” The generous donation of an artificial turf soccer field by a professional soccer team exemplifies this principle of generosity and blessing.
Building Unity: Psalm 133:1 emphasizes the beauty of unity: “Behold, how good and pleasant it is when brothers dwell in unity!” Antioch Church’s soccer tournament initiative fostered unity within the community, bringing people together for a common purpose.
Antioch Church’s Journey of Community Investment
Antioch Church’s story serves as a powerful illustration of biblical wisdom in community investment:
Community Assessment: Antioch Church took the time to conduct a Neighborhood 360 Assessment, actively listening to the needs and desires of their community. This step aligned with the biblical principle of seeking the welfare of the city.
Discovering the Desire for Soccer: Through the assessment, the church discovered that the neighborhood had a strong desire for a soccer tournament. This revelation led to the understanding that the community could benefit from a soccer field.
Generosity from the City’s Soccer Team: Through their commitment to seeking the welfare of the city and fostering unity, word of the church’s soccer tournament initiative reached the city’s professional soccer team. In an act of generosity and blessing, the team donated a $100,000 artificial turf soccer field.
Creating Lasting Impact: The soccer field not only enabled the continuation of the tournaments but also became a valuable community asset. It provided a safe and inclusive space for people of all ages to come together, promote physical health, and build relationships.
Lessons for Community Investment
Antioch Church’s journey teaches us valuable lessons about community investment guided by biblical wisdom:
Listen Actively: Take the time to actively listen to your community’s needs, desires, and challenges. This foundational step ensures that your investment aligns with their well-being.
Seek Unity: Foster unity within your community by creating opportunities for people to come together. Unity can be a powerful force for positive change.
Embrace Generosity: Be open to giving and receiving. Generosity often leads to blessings that surpass our expectations.
Focus on Long-Term Impact: Community investment is about creating lasting impact, not just temporary solutions. Consider how your actions can benefit future generations.
Applying Biblical Wisdom in Your Community
As you consider community investment in your own context, remember to reflect on the principles of biblical wisdom:
1. Assessment and Listening: Start by actively listening to your community’s needs and conducting assessments to better understand their challenges and desires.
2. Seek the Welfare of Your Community: Align your efforts with the well-being of your community, seeking opportunities to make a positive impact.
3. Generosity and Blessing: Embrace generosity in your actions and be open to receiving blessings in return.
Generosity often leads to unexpected opportunities.
4. Unity and Long-Term Impact: Foster unity within your community and focus on initiatives that create lasting, positive change.
In conclusion, biblical wisdom provides a solid foundation for community investment. Antioch Church’s inspiring journey, from listening to the community’s desires to receiving a generous gift for the benefit of the city, serves as a testament to the transformative power of these principles. As you embark on your own community investment journey, pray to find wisdom and guidance.