Bottom Line - May 2017

Dear Friend:

As I write this, I am flying back from Texas, somewhere around 30,000 feet at 11:30 at night. The purpose of my trip was accomplished. Robb Johnson, Jim Matush, Laura and I spoke to our guests at the 20th Annual Houston Gathering. Both of my Timothies shared their stories of how the Lord is working in their lives, then Laura shared her heart and the journey she has been on for the past two years in gaining a new understanding of herself.

I concluded the luncheon with a soft appeal to our Kingdom investors. These are the men and women who sent us to St. Louis, all dear friends of God who understand the need. For twenty years, they have been investing in the St. Louis ministry to carry a message of hope – the Great Commission in action in St. Louis. These friends have faithfully invested in Kingdom work.

As I pondered the individual meetings I had over the past five days, I reflected on how encouraging it was to share with them ‘the fruit that remains’ in men like Robb and Jim. I was filled with His hope. I stand on that hope as I look at the facts of our finances, which indicate that we need more financial investment from everyone who is committed to the ministry of CBMC in St. Louis. This is a critical time.

I then read the following verses: “For they went out for the sake of the Name, accepting nothing from the Gentiles. Therefore, we ought to support such men, that we may be fellow workers with the Truth”. 3 John 7-8

There is an immediate need and I want to make it known to you. The call to action is now, but will continue throughout this year. Please ask the Lord how He wants to see you invest in the Kingdom. Luke 9:62 says, “But Jesus said to him, ‘No one, after putting his hand to the plow and looking back, is fit for the Kingdom of God.’” We are not looking back, but looking ahead. I ask you to help us continue to move forward. Your generous participation matters now, as never before. Indeed, you are our ‘fellow workers with the Truth’. Some of you are already partners and investors – we thank you. To those who have not yet had an opportunity to participate in supporting us financially, we ask you to please consider doing so.

Your investment in the Kingdom brings eternal dividends – that, indeed, is a long-term view. We value your partnership immeasurably.

Discipling daily,

Stanley A. Bower