For good measure

‘Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit,’ says the LORD Almighty (Zechariah 4:6).

This word of the Lord to Zerubbabel encouraging him to complete the post-exilic temple in Jerusalem has taken on renewed meaning for Discovery Community MB Church in Campbell River, B.C.

Two years ago, the leadership of Discovery led our small, struggling congregation along a road that seemed impossible. We purchased a five-acre parcel of land and dared to dream we would one day build a church on it.

Now, almost two years to the day, the land is paid for.

What follows is an account of how God worked in my life to see this project through. I’m a worship leader at Discovery and one day this summer I was praying, pouring out my frustration to the Lord at not being able to give more towards the land purchase. The loan renewal date was looming and my wife and I were not in a position to contribute to all the fundraising activities. I earnestly asked the Lord what I could do.

The answer was not the one I wanted. I heard the Spirit say, “Do a concert of the music you’ve written for me and invite people to donate towards the land.”

Now you have to understand that, musically speaking, I’m no Brian Doerksen or Matt Redman. Besides, why would people pay to hear my music when they can get it for free on Sunday? But, that still small voice kept urging me to trust God – and just do it!

The pastor and elders were so enthusiastic that plans were put in motion before I could wriggle out of it. A venue was provided without charge by a local church, musicians were drafted to assist, and September 30 chosen as the date. I was still anxious about my ability to carry this off, but Lorraine, our church secretary, kept assuring me it was going to be awesome and that God would bless us for listening to the Spirit’s prompting.

And so it was. There were scrumptious desserts (can Mennonites get together without eating?) and new songs written and it all came together flawlessly. And, God richly blessed us by providing enough money not only to pay off the loan but for re-zoning and anticipated building permits as well.

God had responded by meeting our immediate needs and, for good measure, doubling the amount. I thank Jesus for this pointed reminder that it’s not by might nor power, but by God’s Spirit that we thrive.

Rob Beauchamp is deacon of worship at Discovery Community MB Church, Campbell River, B.C.