I don't think I've ever been more psyched for a series of blogs. I'm trying to avoid hype, but here goes: GOD'S NUMBER ONE PRIORITY IS FOR YOU AND I TO BE RICH! Just kidding. I don't really believe that. However, I DO believe that most of us are rich... not just by international standards, but even by American standards.

If you think I'm exaggerating, check out www.globalrichlist.com.

Because we're rich, the big question we should ask every time we receive a paycheck is, "WHY HAS GOD TRUSTED ME WITH SO MUCH MONEY?" Is it to enhance my lifestyle? Is it to become more secure? Is it to retire early? Maybe. Or maybe the reason God has given me more than I need is to help those in need.

Over the next few weeks, Great Lakes Church is going to be receiving our annual Christmas Offering. This will be over and above our regular giving and it will go to the following 3 causes:

1) Providing a well for a village that currently does not have access to clean drinking water, through the Charity:Water organization.

2) Helping with the startup costs of Blue Ridge Church in Blacksburg, VA. This is a new church started by former members of Great Lakes. Our goal is to pay for their first mailer in 2011. It's a big investment that could yield a big return. Who knows? Next year they could be providing a well for a village!

3) Partnering w/ one of our Growth Groups in providing gifts for 100+ students at one of the most under-resourced schools in our area.

I CAN'T WAIT!

By the way, here's a pic of how over 1 billion people in our world get their water...