Kingdom Assignments

On May 3, 2009, 100 Asbury family members and visitors were given an envelope and challenged to a Kingdom Assignment where they use the $100 given to them for the Kingdom of God. This all happened in conjunction with the celebration of ending a 13 week church-wide Financial Peace program called Momentum.

These are in the Spirit

We prayed long and hard as to what to do with the money and how we could “make it grow”. After careful prayer, Laurie and I decided that we would try to use the money to increase the supplies in the food pantry. Laurie had been carefully clipping coupons and through researching deals, we were able to purchase 293 food items for the food pantry for a total list price of $566.06 spending only the $100 we received from the Kingdom Assignment. A small sample of the items purchased included cereal (23 boxes), pasta (51 boxes), toothpaste (12 tubes), first aid items, and other food items. James and Laurie Hise

When I first received the Kingdom assignment I had a few ideas about how to invest my gift, but none seemed quite worthy of the assignment. I prayed for God to give me guidance, but time passed and I didn’t see any deserving opportunities. I did find that I was more generous to people who were begging for money, but I couldn’t give them money from the Kingdom Assignment fund because their desires seemed too frivolous. My son, Alex was looking for a venue for his Young Men’s Fraternity during their Fall meeting, and considered Sumatanga - The United Methodist Church’s North Alabama Camp and Conference Center. It was around that time that Sumatanga was threatened to be closed due to a lack of funds. They needed $300,000 before the end of the summer. On June 21, the Gadsden Times reported that “based on projections the camp will run out of money by the end of August or early September.” Although it seemed unlikely that Sumatanga could earn the needed funds, I felt that the money would be used responsibly to further the Kingdom of God, and I sent them all of the $100 I had been given. Through God’s plans, Sumatanga had surpassed their goal more than a month before their deadline! The Saint Clair Times reported on August 13, that “Sumatanga... has raised over $400,000 toward its goal of sustaining itself past December 2009.” I thank God, that through Asbury’s obedience, I had the opportunity to directly experience spending God’s money wisely, and I pray that I, as well as others will recognize we are God’s servants and that the money we earn belongs to God and should be spent with that in mind. Dave Sippel

When I recognized what I had just volunteered for, I thought, “Great, as if I’m not busy enough! I’m already involved with three ministries and work is only getting more difficult as the economy tanks.” I momentarily considered saying no, but I couldn’t quite get it out of the back of my mind that for some reason that morning my foot was sticking into the aisle and I almost tripped Jon Bridges as he was passing out envelopes. Maybe God was making a not so subtle suggestion. As I considered, discussed with my wife and went to the Kingdom website I felt that I should do this. I also felt and still feel that God wanted me to seek ways to enhance one of the ministries that I am involved with. I ruled out the Welcome Ministry feeling that so many of us are involved that there are plenty of resources directly from the church to support whatever is needed. I then considered the Career Ministry where Beth and I team teach two of the sessions. We didn’t see a pressing need for monetary support there. The key resource we need in the Career Ministry is time to share our experiences and those of the participants. This left the Limestone Prison Pre-release Ministry class that I just began teaching with Henry Pugh. The class we teach in the Pre-release program seeks to help inmates develop a direction for their spiritual life through Rick Warren’s book the Purpose Driven Life. We take the men through the forty days of self-evaluation and seeking of God’s guidance by weekly discussions and a video lecture by Rev. Warren. I really didn’t know how I would be able to put God’s money to good use but thought I just needed to look for an opportunity to make these men’s study a little easier. In the first week I noticed that most of the guys came to class without anything to write with. They also had no way to keep track of their papers. Each week, we view a video lecture and provide a worksheet to complete and discuss following the video. The second week, I bought a package of folders for the guys to keep their worksheets in. Since then, I’ve bought another package and also a pack of twelve dozen pens. I can bring a dozen into each class and let them keep them if they need a pen. During that first six week session, we had one inmate, Frank, who was getting his fiancé involved as he went through the forty days of growth. Each week he asked us for an extra copy of the worksheet. I think we also gave him an extra copy of the book. During the third or fourth class as we discussed a Bible passage, I asked the question, “Does anybody need a Bible?” Frank raised his hand, as did another inmate Walter. I told them that I would bring them a Bible the next week. I bought each of them a “travel” size NIV Bible. I thought the smaller, thinner size would be more convenient for them the carry and keep in the dorm. Anything that makes it more convenient for them in their close quarters I think is appreciated. During my second six week session, I split the duties with Henry. I taught two classes, Henry taught the next three while I was on vacation and we were together only for the last class. Nobody needed a Bible and I only gave out a few pens. However, during that last class I absolutely felt God at work as Henry witnessed to the men about how the kindness of a stranger profoundly impacted a member of his family. It made me realize that even small acts performed as soon as you see the need can help in ways we can not know. So far, I’ve spent about $55 of the $100 of God’s money. I teach another six week session beginning Friday, September 4. I’ll continue to use God’s money to help the guys in the Pre-release class, whether I received it in that envelope in May or if I receive it by direct deposit every two weeks. Thanks for giving me the envelope. I am blessed to have the opportunity to serve in the ministries at Asbury. Jayne Leonard

When we were each given $100 by Asbury to invest in God’s kingdom, we both knew what we wanted to do with the money. We decided we wanted to give the money to the Salvation Army Soup Kitchen Ministry; but then we thought, why stop there? Combined, we had $200; we decided to expand our $200 by going door-to-door asking for donations. We also wrote letters and sent them out to family and friends asking if they would like to contribute. Thanks to all of the generous people who donated, we were able to turn the $200 into $1025! For fun, we made a giant check to present to the head of the ministry, Miss Imogene. When she got the check, she just about cried. People said it was the closest to being speechless that they have ever seen Miss Imogene. Imogene told us this meant a lot to her, and that the money will feed a lot of people. Once we got home, we did the math and figured out that the $1025 would make about 5000 sandwiches. (Depending on whether the bologna is on sale or not.) The staff at the soup kitchen told Miss Imogene that, because of the rising cost of food, they would not have anything to feed the people at the end of the month if it were not for the sandwiches the ministry provides. We got the nicest thank you letter from Imogene and want to share it with you.  By doing this project we have reached out to more people then we ever expected to. Our grandparents in South Carolina told their Sunday school class about our project and as a result it motivated the class to minister to the homeless where they live.  We really touched the life of Barbara Curry. She and her son started the soup kitchen ministry over 20 years ago when her son Joel was just 10 years old. On May 20th, 2007, Joel was killed in a car accident. He died five weeks after his second child was born. After Joel’s death, Grace UMC renamed the Soup Kitchen Ministry to the Joel Curry Soup Kitchen Ministry. Mrs. Curry sent a thank you letter to us with the last picture taken of Joel and his family. Mrs. Curry said it helps to keep his memory alive. Steve West, the pastor of Grace UMC said his congregation “appreciates the awesome and inspiring gift” and that “it was a real inspiration in morning worship for Imogene to read your letter as a testimony”. This project really meant a lot to us, and touched more lives than we ever thought it would. Through this experience we have learned that we can make a difference and that we should always look for a way to help others as we further God’s kingdom. We’ll never forget our kingdom assignment and how much it meant to so many. Stephen and Christie Peters

When I received the Kingdom Assignment I felt honored to receive such an opportunity, but I was also overwhelmed with the responsibility.  I prayed that God would lead me to the right investment.  I work as the clubhouse manager for our neighborhood HOA and recently there had been a special assessment for various neighborhood projects.  Some of the residents were against this and there were some bad feelings in the neighborhood.  I have always felt that God had placed me in the position of clubhouse manager for a reason.  At any rate, I felt compelled to pay someone’s special assessment.  I prayed about who that person should be and God placed a name in my head.  This person as far as I am concerned was no more deserving or in need than anyone else in the neighborhood, in fact in all of my dealings with this person in the past, they were usually grumpy or aggravated.  But this was the person God was clearly calling me to invest in.  So I paid the amount and sent the receipt and an anonymous letter to this person explaining that because of this Kingdom Assigment I was investing in her.  I would love to know how this investment has multiplied for the kingdom but I do not.  I think maybe God knew it might be a point of pride for me so I will just have to have faith that it did!  At any rate, I did receive a cheerful call one day from this person asking if it was true that the assessment had been paid to which I responded that it had.  I am glad that God allowed me to see her happiness in receiving this gift.  In fact, I am planning to pay someone’s assessment again soon.  I would like to figure out how to get some other neighbors in on the joy! Cricket Carroll

Our 10 year-old son, Ben, was actually the recipient of the $100 bill for our Kingdom Assignment.  Although we discussed many ways to use the money to further God’s kingdom, God placed on our hearts the Tatums’ ministry in Costa Rica.  You see, Costa Rica has become a special place for us and we’ve never even been there.  Ben and I were scheduled to go with a parent and child group to Costa Rica last October, but learned one hour before the plane departed that we could not go due to a staph infection in Ben’s leg.  I’ve heard lots of people say that their lives were changed because of going on a particular mission trip, but ours were changed by NOT getting to go.  It was an incredible week for Ben and me as we shared the week together and served God in local mission opportunities.  We also learned this week that we would go to Costa Rica on God’s timing, not ours. The name of our Kingdom Assignment is “PJs and Pillowcases”.  We used the $100 to buy fabric and I have sewn kid-themed pillowcases for the orphanage where Beth & Bryan will be house parents.  In coordination with Children’s Ministry, we will have a drive for new kids’ pajamas to be packaged together with the pillowcases.  Of course, we expect to collect more pajamas than I can make pillowcases, so we want to distribute those extra PJs to other locations such as the Downtown Rescue Mission, domestic abuse facilities, hospitals, etc.  Once the pajamas are collected, we will have a mission night on Wednesday night during the Faithful Friends ministry time.  My thought is to have a big pajama party where Asbury children wear their PJs and assemble packages of pajamas, pillowcases and a bedtime prayer for each child.  The groups will then pray over the packages and the children who will receive them.  Ben and I hope to hand-deliver the packages to Bryan & Beth on the Parent/Child Costa Rica Mission Trip scheduled for Spring Break 2010!   Will Speed Family

Once we received the Kingdom Assignment, we had no clue what to do with it!  I had encouraged Corey to “go take an envelope” during the service where they were handed out, and I struggled with what the right use of the money would be for several days.  I asked a few friends that I knew had friends with needs, but nothing seemed right.  I carried the money around in my purse in case God were to tell me to help someone at the grocery store or just around town, but He never did.  One evening a few weeks later (when the money was all but forgotten), a dear friend of mine told me about a Bible study she was going to be hosting in her home.  She felt strongly called to host this study and to provide all materials and childcare for the ladies involved.  All of the ladies had small children.  No bells immediately went off in my head, but at 6 o’clock the next morning, I jolted awake to God telling me to give that money to my friend to help out with the Bible study.  What better way to further God’s Kingdom than help with a Bible study that ministers to mothers of young children?  This would go towards something that would not only bring the moms closer to God, but through them also minister to their children.  I almost called her right then and there, but thought better of it since it was so early in the morning and she has 3 young children.  When I did get a chance to talk with her, she was very thankful for the help, and wanted to use the money to go towards childcare for the study.  The Bible study was a great success, changing lives and bringing the women closer to God.  However, the amazing part is that the story doesn’t end there!  Because of receiving this Kingdom Assignment money, my friend felt that she should incorporate the “giving” into the Bible study itself, as a weekly side-project.  She and the ladies involved did things each week to help someone else, whether it be writing notes of encouragement to other moms or taking a meal to a mom who could use it that day.  God is so GOOD! Carol Hale

My family was blessed to have received three of the envelopes.  At first, my children thought we could spend our money at Walmart.  They wanted to run and get the latest toy on their wish list.  But, then I reminded them that it was God’s money and we should use it to help grow His Kingdom.  We spent several weeks praying about how to use the money.  I struggled with the part of the parable in which the money was doubled.  How was I supposed to double the money?  With each prayer, I asked God to make the opportunity so obvious that we would have no doubt that this was how the money should be used. As I waited, I thought about the parable.  The parts that stood out for me were that each servant was given talents according to his/her ability, and they went out at once.  As I reflected on these parts, some points came to me.  The servants did not use the money to go learn a skill or educate themselves in order to gain more.  They used what was already given to them.  God has given each one of us skills/talents to be used to further His Kingdom.  These talents have either come to us knowingly, like school and career choices.  But others have come to us through provenient grace, like turning left when we typically turn right or putting people in our lives to influence or ourselves be influenced.  I prayed and listened for God in this part of the parable.  To me, this meant that an opportunity has already been given or an opportunity will be given within something I am already doing.  I searched within my daily life and I asked my children to do the same.  

These are our stories:

Anyone who knows me knows that scouting is my passion.  I grew up through scouting, my children are in scouts, and I encourage others to join.  I carried God’s $100 bill with me so that I was prepared to act at the right opportunity.  One day, I was in the scout store.  I could feel that the opportunity was right before me.  I asked my friend Rose, who works at the shop, if there was a scholarship fund to help boys attend Cub Scout Day Camp.  She told me that shop employees typically would pool their money to help pay for less fortunate Cubs to attend day camp.  I pulled out God’s $100 bill and offered to make a contribution.  I told her about the Kingdom Assignment.  As she accepted the money, she explained how the money would be used.  Normally, one hundred dollars would only pay for one Cub to go to camp.  Through the scholarship fund, the money would be able to send three Cubs to camp.  God is good! My children had decided to pool the money that was given to them.  My son, Dylan, thought about how to grow God’s Kingdom.  To him, that meant sharing the good news of the Bible.  As we talked about it, Julia and Dylan decided that this was what they should do with God’s money.  They wanted to be able to send Bibles to people in a foreign land.  The only decision left was where.  As we continued to pray for opportunities, we were also praying for my wife’s trip to Kenya.  We prayed that the team would keep their eyes, ears, and hearts open for opportunities to share God’s love.  One evening after their mission meeting, Kathy came home knowing where the Bibles should be given.  The team had talked about how to share and evangelize to people in Kenya.  One member asked, “What happens after a person prays to receive Christ?”  In the discussion, another member said it would be nice to be able to give them a Bible.  Wow, provenient grace had provided us an opportunity.  After talking with our Kenya contact, God’s money was used, locally in Kenya, to purchase 22 Bibles which were given to several churches.  One hundred dollars would only be able to purchase maybe five Bibles here in the United States.  God is good! God had provided.  I released my anxiety about doubling the money and trusted that God would provide.  And, He did!  There are areas in each of our lives that we have been equipped to perform or be used for God’s plan.  God has already given you the skills, resources, and abilities to work for Him.  We don’t need to go looking for it.  But, we must keep our eyes, ears, and hearts open for the opportunities that God puts before us.  It is up to us to choose whether to listen and serve. Eric Eberly
I received one of the $100 bills during the 9:00 Traditional Service.  To be honest, I started to think of all the legitimate excuses I could use not to participate.  My daughter has Chron’s disease and was scheduled for numerous test and probable surgery.  My step-daughter went through a double mastectomy in March, and several weeks later was diagnosed with staph infection.  My step-son’s wife was going through many tests for a possible heart condition and liver condition.  My granddaughter was coming down for her usual six week visit in June.  To top all of that, I work a full time job.   After much soul searching, and the promise of help from my Sunday school class, I decided to take on the challenge.  I decided to buy the book written by Pastor Denny Bellesi.  I went to the two Christian book stores and neither one had the book.  I called the book store at the Parkway Mall, Barnes & Noble, and Books a Million.  None of them had the book, but I finally found it looking at Barnes & Noble’s used books on the internet. The book contains many stories of what the people did from the Coast Hills Community Church in CA where Pastor Denny Bellesi passed out 100 $100 bills.  The stories were very inspiring.  I prayed about it and thought of many worthwhile charities including the Huntsville Soup Kitchen, The Susan G. Komen fund, our injured military returning from war, and many others.  I was sitting in church several weeks ago and heard the minister talk about the Tatum family leaving soon for CO and then going to Costa Rica to open an orphanage.  I thought this would be a great opportunity to help a family from our own church. They were able to give up their home, family, and friends to live in another country and help children.  I received wonderful support from my Sunday school class, the Friendship Class.  I also contacted Ruth Elder from the Open Door Sunday school class, and Marilyn Raymond from the Discussion Sunday school class.  Both classes were very generous.  Several members of my family and some friends also contributed.  I received $600 and with the $100 I originally started with, I sent $700 to the Mission Society in support of the Tatums.  Due to the fact my daughter had surgery June 17, and I went to stay with her for a week, I turned the money in early.  I wanted to make sure the money got there before I left town.  I found this experience to be very rewarding, and I’m really glad I decided to participate. Judith Porter

For several weeks after I received my Kingdom Assignment, I was concerned because I didn’t feel like God was speaking to me in any obvious way about how best to proceed. I was considering just sending the money back to Asbury so that it could be put to some use. Then, a month or so ago, Marlene Blevins, a member of my Sunday School class, mentioned that a mission church that she was involved with would be holding their very first VBS, and that she was a bit concerned because they had limited resources. I immediately felt like this was the opportunity that I had been waiting for and so I arranged to bring the money to Marlene the following week. I can’t know for sure what direct impact this donation had on the ministry, but as reported in the August/September issue of the Asbury Spirit newsletter, the VBS was a great success. Marlene reported that the week began with 20 kids in attendance, and that they were up to 39 by the end of the week. She felt that despite some initial resistance that she felt from some of the kids at the beginning of the week, that by the end of the week they were much more receptive and willing to participate. Hopefully this was the beginning of a new tradition for this church. Lyle Johnson

I received the $100 for the Kingdom Assignment and I immediately knew I would apply it towards supporting the Men on a Mission Oil Change Ministry to help support the Oil Change Day (OCD)  and expenses for related auto repairs and materials. I had just recently taken over the lead role for OCD event and was excited about the various ways we can help not just the widows, single mothers and spouses of the deployed on routine car maintenance, but also to train youth and adults in basic auto repairs and spread the Gospel. Today, dependable transportation is a basic need just like food, clothing and shelter - especially to remain employed. Now that I knew where to use the funds, the next goal is how to make the $100 grow to support the need. I decided to combine this mission with my hobby, flying. At the May OCD I announced an incentive; anyone that makes a donation to Asbury for the OCD, I will take for a free airplane ride around the area as my donation. Over $1400 has been contributed by individuals to the OCD since then with a few people actually being brave enough to go for a plane ride. Scott Millhouse

We would like to first begin by thanking our gracious Savior and Asbury for this incredible opportunity.  From the moment we received the assignment, we both immediately agreed that we wanted to use the money in a way that would benefit children, as this is where both of our passion lies.  After tossing around several ideas, we decided that rather than just donating the money to a fund, we wanted to actually put the money to use.  With Kristen being a local educator, our heart is dedicated to helping young minds grow.  As the school year ended and summer began, the decision became clear.  When it came time for school to begin again, we would use the money to buy school supplies for children in need.  The start of a new school year can bring about much excitement but also many fears.  As a teacher, I see first hand the confidence that comes with a packed bookbag and school box.  When students have supplies to call their own, they have a sense of security that stays with them through the rest of the school year and makes learning a little easier.  It is our hope that the supplies we bought and donated made the first days of school for many children in our community a little brighter.  As I teach school each and everyday, I am reminded of the miracle God has sent through children.  Thank you again for including us in this rewarding experience. Kristen and Justin Jackson

After a good amount of prayer and discussion, my family and I decided to use the money to further God’s Kingdom by raising money for Royal Family Kids Camp.  Teresa and I MC’d the talent show a couple years ago and briefly got to
experience first-hand the wonderful children that are forever changed through this amazing week. We tossed around many ideas but pretty quickly settled on an activity that would involve our kids and many of their friends (ages 11-13), and at the same time provide them with as much of a first-hand experience of RFKC as possible. So we decided to have a pool party. Suddenly we had a delimma; we had no pool.  John and Lori Sacco graciously agreed to host our fund-raiser event.  We provided drinks and snacks and asked that everyone coming bring a donation.  We arranged – through Elizabeth Clemens – for two teenage C I Ts (Counselors In Training) to come by and give a testimonial on RFKC, explaining what led them to help with this ministry, what effect it has had on them personally and spiritually, and share some personal experiences they’ve had.  Many of the kids had never heard of RFKC before, and it was great to see them watch, listen, and learn.We raised in excess of $600 and had a wonderful time in the process.  Elizabeth Clemens used the money to purchase CD players that were given to the children at graduation on their last day at camp.  She also gave them CDs of songs that they had sung during the week.  She said she has found that many of the campers still know all the words to praise songs years later because they listen to their CDs over and over again at home.  The music and words help return them to the positive memories that were created while at camp and remind them over and over again that God loves them and thinks they are special.  This helps with the less than ideal living conditions and locations and hard times that they endure. Thank you for giving my family, friends, and I the opportunity to grow God’s family through the Kingdom Assignment. Bryan Walker

The Sunday I was given the envelope with the Kingdom Assignment money, I was kind of a reluctant acceptor. I tried to avoid Jon’s eyes, but he gave the envelope to me anyway. The reason I was reluctant was that I did not have a clear idea of just what a Kingdom Assignment really was. That afternoon I spent a couple of hours on the internet trying to find out and I found a great deal of information, which boiled down to the fact that the money was to be used for furthering the Kingdom of God---a kind of paying it forward. I even found a couple of sites that suggested that the program was not biblically based. However, from what I read and from what our ministers here at Asbury have said, I believe that it is biblically sound. Armed with the knowledge of what a Kingdom Assignment is, I taped the $100 bill to the side of my computer screen as a reminder to pray about what I could do further the Kingdom of God. As time went by, I was able to think of several different things, but none of them---even though they may have been beneficial---seemed to be the right fit. Then, about the middle of June, a story in the Huntsville Times really caught my attention. The story was about how Camp Sumatanga, a property owned by the North Alabama Conference of the Methodist Church, was in dire financial straits. It stated that the camp would need $300,000 just to stay in operation through the end of 2009 or it might have to close. I decided that this was whit I was looking for as the camp has a special meaning to me. My father, who was a Methodist minister, and my brother helped in the construction of some of the original buildings in the early 1950’s and I attended camp there every summer while I was in school. I have also attended several retreats there as an adult. So I sent the money along with some of my own to the camp. I talked to my Sunday School class about the needs of the camp and they voted to send a donation of $500. I also asked that individual members of the class to send donations as well. In addition to that, I emailed some other members of Asbury and other Methodists in North Alabama that I know and asked them to send in donations as well. I have given my class a couple of updates on the situation and kept asking for donations. Whether anyone did or not, I do not know. That is between them and God. As of September 4th, $557,939.26 has been raised and bookings for next year have increased. Praise God! In addition to that, other prayers continue to be answered in Camp Sumatanga’s return to financial stability. An anonymous donor has generously paid off the Camp’s approximately $722,000 remaining debt from the construction of the Retreat Center. A major burden that Camp has struggled with for years has been eliminated! As a result of this payment Sumatanga will have nearly $80,000 each year in extra funds available for ongoing operations of Camp instead of for making loan payments. In an article published on September 04, 2009 by columnist John Archibald, of the Bir-mingham News (and also a Methodist preacher’s son), he wrote about Camp Sumatanga: “Camp -- any good camp -- is about building relationships, learning independence, a respect for nature and other people. It is about stockpiling memories and learning lessons, then turning them around to pay them forward. Again and again and again. Like that anonymous donor. Like all who went to camp and came home better off. When there is a need, there is a chance to help. When we teach the children well, they will remind us -- forever and ever -- what it is we need to know.” This is what Sumatanga is all about--- it is to grow the Kingdom of God! I would like to think that my little bit of work on this is helping to keep God’s Kingdom growing. I thank God and Asbury for the opportunity to do this. Lloyd Newman

Not in the Spirit Newsletter

On May 2nd, my daughter, Mary, and I received one of the mysterious envelopes.  When we opened it and realized just what was in it we were thrilled to be a part of this experiment. I felt like a servant who had just been handed a talent.  My first question was how to multiply this money to benefit the Master.  I knew not to bury the talent we had been entrusted with but to use it to glorify Him.  We talked about it as a family and decided to use the money to bless those with whom we could relate.  My children are my dearest blessings and so we decided to use the Kingdom funds in ministries for children.  I think most Christian parents would agree that our highest aspirations for our children are to know Jesus and to call Him Savior.  So the next question was how to use the money to bring children closer to Jesus. We were looking for a place/mission where God was at work.  Henry Blackaby in Experiencing God tells us to find where God is a work and come along side Him.  My children are fortunate to attend a Christian school and there they worship Jesus in Chapel every morning at 8:05.  My son, David, who is 4, has learned most of the books of the New Testament; my nine year-old daughter, Hannah,  knows more about the 12 tribes of Israel than I will probably ever know and my middle child, Mary, has a teacher who daily exhibits each and every one of the fruits of the Spirit.  It's apparant God is at work in their school and we wanted to join in.  The kids asked the other children in their classes to join them in providing funds to their teachers for classroom use.  $20.00 of our Kingdom money grew to $83.00 with the help of others and was split between the teachers.  Another ministry that is near and dear to our hearts in Royal Family Kids Camp.  While Mike and I have never been able to serve on the team, we have prayed for the counselors and children over the years.  And the stories of God's love for these children always brings a tear to my eye.  Our Sunday School class joined together this year to provide various supplies to RFKC.  I would guess upward of 100 items were donated by Cornerstone this summer.  Again, we saw God at work and wanted to join in.  We purchased some pj's with personal funds but also contributed $50.00 of our Kingdom money toward the cause.  God alone knows how much those efforts grew.  Finally, August rolled around and we were still looking for a place to donate our final $30.00.  I was spending a lot of time in stores shopping for school supplies and complaining about how much it all costs.  Why does my 6 year-old need at 2 1/2 inch notebook that costs $10.00?  What will a 4 year-old do with sheet protectors?  Then it hit me that not everyone can afford that notebook or might have to decide between sheet protectors and milk for that week.  I knew exactly where our last $30.00 needed to go.  You can buy a lot of crayons, glues sticks, and pencils with $30.00.  And as we saw school supplies piling up around the church we brought our bags in and added them to the pile.  We were proud to join SS Kids in providing school supplies to others.  And... it put my school supply shopping back in proper perspective.  I probably won't complain next year about the cost but instead be grateful for the ability to purchase what my kids need.  God is alive and at work in the lives of children.  One of my favorite stories is when the children visit Jesus only to be turned away by the Disciples.  Jesus rebukes the Disciples and calls the little children forward.  Not to lecture them, not to preach to them, but to hold them in His lap and bless them.  I believe He longs for us to do the same.   Thank you , thank you for allowing us to participate.  It was an awesome experience for our family.  
Dena Einhorn

At first I was thinking I’d contribute to DivorceCare, since I had benefited from that program, but I found that it was already well-funded. I prayed and thought about it, and eventually decided I was being led to contribute to the Loggins family effort to become permanent missionaries in Honduras. I matched the $100 and donated $200 to that mission. I’ve since gotten closer to the Loggins family and have been helping them in other ways toward reaching the calling they believe God has led them to. Jonathan Manteuffel

I was so excited about receiving the Kingdom Assignment I missed the turn into the entrance of the restaurant I was meeting Susan Farris and Terry Jackson at for lunch. While driving I prayed and felt the need to match the $100. I was not sure what I was going to do with the match or the $100.  I few days later while I was planning on hosting the Esther Circle meeting I felt the need to share the Kingdom assignment with a mini-assignment within the Circle.  I got 5 crisp $20 bills and put them in cards and gave them to 5  ladies who volunteered in my circle. Here is what they did with them ~ Susie Stepko gave her $20 to a Missionary Family at the Pittsburgh Airport on their way to Macedonia. Heather Elliot matched it for $40 and gave it to a family in her Sunday School Class who had lost their jobs and had 4 children. Shari Nosenzo pledged $100 ($20 from the Kingdom assignment) along with others at Annual Conference to help keep Camp Sumatanga from closing its doors at least to the end of the year. Corinne Runkle had other people donate some $20 each and along with Marty donated a total of $200 to the Prison Pre-release program which in part pays for birth certificates for former inmates. Marcie Kennedy added $30 to it for a total of $50 to "the Church of the Reconciler" who ministers to the homeless in downtown Birmingham whom she was introduced through Urban Ministries.  Tim and I gave the original $100 to Samaritans Purse, who have done their utmost to follow Christ's command by going to the aid of the world's poor, sick, and suffering. Carleen Cowles

I did not expect to receive 100 dollars at the church service on May 2nd. I only knew that if it had to do with being faithful to Christ, I wanted in. I remember the moment I understood what my "job" was, I panicked. What BIG thing can I do for God so that His Kingdom is furthered? Note the I DO! I learned that this is my usual response to new assignments, responsibilities and activities in my life. I do and forget that I need to first BE. I stress and worry that I will not be good enough. I forget that life is not about me but about fulfilling God's purposes for me. His plan for my life is much better than my own. I did spend much time in prayer about what God wanted with the money. I did not want to make money for God by asking for money. I believed that God can get as much money as he needs without my help. I needed to pray diligently for his will to be done with the money. Then my study of Romans in summer specifically Romans 8:28 was tested to the limit. My 3rd child was hospitalized and saved by God from life support at the end of June. Diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes(insulin dependent), our family was hit like a ton of bricks with shock, uncertainty, fear and a new mountain to climb. "And we know that in all things, God works for the good of those who Love him and are called according to his purpose."  The last time I wrestled with this verse was in 2004 when my younger sister was killed by a drunk driver while jogging on a country road. My sadness was so deep that I would not open my Bible for 3 months. Now it was different. I knew I loved God and was called by him. I knew that he was for me and not against me. And this time, I was certain that, though I did not know how, that God could make something good from this either in this life or in the life to come because nothing is too difficult for the him. Now I know in part, but one day I will know fully his plan to glorify himself in this circumstance. I almost put the money into a fund for children with diabetes to help them go to summer camp. But it did not feel right so I did not forge ahead with it. Two weeks later, my good friend's 19 year old son committed suicide. God helped me take my focus off of my own circumstances and focus on the support and love this dear family needed. This family wanted to touch other young lives that struggled with depression and wanted to give money to a building for youth. I know that my 100 dollars would serve not just the memory of this young man, but many other teenage men and women who needed support in a Christian based setting. That is where the money was put and I know that it will bless many young people and honor the memory of their dear beloved son. THanks for opportunity to be challenged to give to God what is already his! Mary McManus

What I did with the $100 dollars for God's Kingdom Assignment was that $30 dollars was donated to the ARK and also what I did was go around some local stores in Huntsville and Madison and received donations as in like dog food, cat litter, puppy pads, etc. and I told them the ARK had no clue that I was doing all this. Then I donated 30 dollars to cell phones for soldiers (by buying 3 international phone cards) along with my friend’s old cell phones that they don't use anymore.  I shipped and mailed the phones and phone cards to cell phones for soldiers.  And with the last $40 dollars I donated that to the children’s ministries at Asbury UMC..... Overall I think my money has helped to grow God's Kingdom. Sapphire Bright

I took the $100 with me to California. My neice, 21, was in a terrible living situation. She had suffered physical abuse at home and had to flee. The only person who would take her in was an aquaintance from her college. Unfortuanatley, this woman was also a witch and a drug addict and a prostitute. We had to get my neice out of there. I put the $100 from Asbury into an envelope, along with envelopes of cash from family members. Each envelope was a message of love and concern for her. As she opened each envelope, she was so touched that many people from out-of-state cared for her (even this church full of strangers), she was overwhelmed. We moved her into her own, safe apartment. That night, I was able to share the gospel message with her. She said, "This is what I've been looking for my whole life." She accepted Jesus as her Lord and Savior. I think of the money from Asbury as a tangible way to say, "Welcome to the family!" I would have to check with her about how much she would like shared publicly. I teach at the 9 am services. Carol Hale

I used the $100 to purchase supplies for my Emmaus reunion group to make Agape for Walks to Emmaus.  The first set of Agape was given to the New Life Men's Walk #16 in July.  We still have supplies for future Walks. Melissa Harkins

I learned of a mission trip to Africa that was leaving within 2 weeks and was short on funds for medical supplies.  After praying about this and other ideas I believed the best use of God's money was to use it for purchasing medical supplies for this mission. David Skridulis

I received one of the $100 bills during the 9:00 Traditional Service on  May 3, 2009.  To be honest, I started to think of all the legitimate excuses I could use not to participate.  My daughter has Chron's disease and was scheduled for numerous test and probable surgery.  My step-daughter went through a double mastectomy in March, and several weeks later was diagnosed with staff infection.  My step-son's wife was going through many tests for a possible heart condition, and liver condition.  My granddaughter was coming down for her usual six week visit in June.  To top all of that, I work a full time job.   After much sole searching, and the promise of help from my Sunday school class, I decided to take on the challenge.  I decided to buy the book written by Pastor Denny Bellesi.  I went to the two Christian Book stores by the Target Mall and neither one had the book.  I called the book store at the Parkway Mall, Barnes & Noble, and Books a Million.  None of them had the book, but I finally found it looking at Barnes & Noble's used books on the Internet. The book contains many stories of what the people did from the Coast Hills Community Church in CA where Pastor Denny Bellesi passed out 100 $100 bills.  The stories were very inspiring.  I prayed about it and thought of many worth while charities including the Huntsville Soup Kitchen, The Susan G. Komen for the cure of breast cancer, our injured military returning from war, and many others.  I was sitting in church several weeks ago and heard the minister talk about the Tatum family leaving soon for CO and then going to Costa Rica to open an orphanage.  I thought what an opportunity to help a family from our own church.  A family that gave up their home, school, family and friends to live in another country and help children.   I received wonderful support from my Sunday school class, the Friendship Class.  I also contacted Ruth Elder from the Open Door Sunday school class, and Marilyn Raymond from the Discussion Sunday school class.  Both classes were very generous.  Several members of my family and some friends also contributed.  I received $600 and with the $100 I originally started with, I sent $700 to the Mission Society in support of the Tatums.  Do to the fact my daughter had surgery June 17th, and I went to stay with her for a week, I turned the money in early.  I wanted to make sure the money got there before I left town.  I found this experience to be very rewarding, and I'm really glad I decided to participate. Judith Porter

We held a summer pool party for the Celebration Sunday School Class.  We furnished all of the food for this party and asked those in attendance to make a contribution for our cause.  We raised $325.00 plus the $100 to be given to the Tatum's for them to purchase sports equipment, games and whatever they needed for the children in their "house" or for when the school was up and running.  This money was given to them at their farewell on Sunday July 26th. Gerry Boiten

I initially set out to buy a new translation of the Bible in Marshallese and distribute to islanders in South Pacific.  I had done this before and know the need is great.  But the pastor I know in the region informed me that they were out at this time. So, I looked for other ways to provide the word in difficult to get to locations.  I read about a program Lifeway Bookstore provides that allows NIV Bibles to be sent to our Armed Forces.  Having been deployed several times before as an Army officer, I know that commonly Army Chaplains have plenty of New Testament small sized Bibles available.  But a full larger Bible both Old and New testament for easy reading and study is much harder to find.  With that in mind, I used the money to purchase  a larger sized Bible to be sent to Army, Airforce, and Marines in both Iraq and Afghanistan.  John Vannoy

I found out that, at the Childrens Advocacy Center, they have bunch of children that have been abused either physically or mentally or both. The money that I gave will help to pay for a therpist to help the children deal-cope-gain hope and heal. Also it helps the moms of these abused kids by helping them find jobs, a place to live and any legal advice or support they may need. I took the $100.00 you gave me and added $50.00 to it for a total $150.00. Not much I know, but its a start. The results of such a venture may not be seen for years down the road, but I feel and I prayed about it that, its sowing some good seeds. And it is also the kind of investment I personally can continue to conribute to hopefully for a long time. I did not get a recept- but I wrote a check which will be a recept. By-the-way, they were very happy for the donation-it was almost as if I gave 3x's that! Darrell and Stacy Tibbs

I prayed and talked to many people about the Kingdom Assignment.  I felt God continuing to lead me to the Benevolent Fund.  I sent the email below.

Dear friends,

Recently I received a Kingdom Assignment.  The idea of the Kingdom Assignment was started by Pastor Denny Bellesi and his wife Leesa from Coast Hills Community Church in California.  One hundred $100 bills were given out randomly to people in the congregation and I am one of those people.  The money does not belong to me, the money belongs to God.  The idea is to invest the money in a way that will extend God’s Kingdom.  To get more info on the Kingdom Assignment and how it started and where it is today go to www.kingdomassignment.com.  I have taken this assignment very seriously and have been praying and searching for ways to invest this money to help others.  After much prayer and research, I have been led to the Benevolent Ministry at my church.

The Benevolent Ministry is a fund at Asbury UMC that helps those in need in the community.  They may need help with a mortgage payment, rent, utility bill, car payment, etc.  The money is never paid directly to the individual, always to the third party such as the bank or utility company on their behalf.  Some of these people have lost their jobs, lost a spouse or been ill.  They must fill out an application and are referred to our Financial Peace ministry for help with budgeting.  They only get help once unless there are extenuating circumstances and only if they have made the effort to get on a budget.  Our country has fallen on hard times and my heart goes out to people that have lost jobs during these tough economic times.  It seems to really have affected single moms.  Clay and I have been truly blessed and want to bless others as God has blessed us.  

Now, you want to know why I have sent you this email.  I am asking you to join me in matching the $100 Kingdom Assignment and giving it to the Asbury Benevolent Fund.  Yes, I will be writing a check for $100 above my normal tithe and Building Fund pledge.  If you want to join me, you can send your check made payable to Asbury UMC with Benevolent Fund in the memo to my address and I will put all the donations together.  Or you can send it directly to the church at:

Asbury United Methodist Church
980 Hughes Road
Madison, AL  35758

If you send it to the church, please let me know you are participating in the Kingdom Assignment.  I want to report back to all of you what God will do.  I am just His vessel.  He is the orchestrator.  I can’t wait to see what He does.

I hope this will bless you as much as it has me.  I know the people that will receive help from this ministry will be blessed.

Thank you,
Anisa

I have $1050 to give the the Benevolent Fund.  So many were touched, I even got $100 from Germany.  God is amazing and he can do anything. Anisa Graner

I chose to donate my Kingdom Assignment money to the Tatums Costa Rica mission as a gift at their farewell reception.  I have an investment that infrequently pays a dividend.  When I do receive a dividend I try to use it for some special purpose so I added it to the Kingdom Assignment money for the Tatums.  Hopefully these gifts will in some way be a blessing to the children they are serving. Joyce Vest

My husband and I tossed around several ideas and I prayed that God would guide me in how I was to use the money.  A solicitation came from WorldHelp stating that for the first time Iraqi children were eligible to receive their services.  This was the nudge I needed in determining how to use the money.  We now sponsor a nine-year-old Iraqi boy.  The monetary support and prayers for this child surely help his daily life and hopefully will grow God's kingdom. Julie Moquin

When I was called to the front of the service, given the mysterious envelope, and finally understood what it was all about, I was at a loss of what to do with the 100 dollar bill. My first idea was an animal shelter. My mom and I are very passionate about animals in need and also believe that that can be a ministry. Well that idea fell through so my next bet was a needy child. I was an 8th grader at Liberty at the time and i thought that I could go talk to a guidance counselor to spend the 100 dollars annonomously on a kid my age who may have needed new clothes, school supplies, may want to play a sport and can't afford it, or anything else. But, unfortunately it was the last week at school and the counselors were busy with the 8th graders who were trying to get their schedules strait for their freshman year, so I was unable to talk to them. I am actually a member of Crosspointe Church; on the morning that I received the money i was with my friend, Kaitlin Shelton, for the day. So, over the summer I went to a youth group camp with my church called Big Stuf. While there, we went throught a life changing journey watching videos and hearing stories about families in Kenya and their need for clean water, secure schools, healthy food, and basic needs. It really tugged at my heart, I wanted to leave right that very second and come to their help. But, knowing that wasn't possible, I decided to send the 100 dollars to the organization that is working with them. Just that 100 dollars will provide clean, healthy water for 100 people for a year. I thank God for this opportunity and I pray that these people will come to know Him through caring for their physical needs. Maddie Hutt