Generosity Today: 2024 Issue 1

2024, Issue 1

GENEROSITY TODAY

Ho n o r G o d . P r o v i d e f o r Fa m i ly. S u p p o r t M i n i s t r y.

EYES ON THE ETERNAL Generations of Generosity Life Story: Rich & Laura

Healthy Conversations Conflict of Wills 5 Tips for Finding Common Ground

Dear Friend, In his book The Treasure Principle, Randy Alcorn talks about living for the line rather than the dot.

In comparison to eternity, he says, your lifetime is simply a dot; there’s a beginning and an end.

From that dot, however, extends a line that goes on forever.

Because of the intensity of life, we often forget about the long-term impact of our decisions. Our attention is usually drawn to the dot — the here and now, the tyranny of the urgent — instead of what’s most important.

This issue focuses on the eternal impact we can make with the few years we have on this earth, with the resources that God has entrusted to us. I pray these articles will help you sit back and consider how God wants to work in and through you.

If Barnabas Foundation can be of any help in your long-term planning, please give us a call. It’s our joy to assist you in making an impact for eternity.

Grateful to serve you,

About Generosity Today Generosity Today is a quarterly publication of Barnabas Foundation, designed to help Christians experience greater Kingdom impact through effective, purpose-filled generosity.

To request additional, complimentary copies to share with your friends, family or church, email info@BarnabasFoundation.org, call 888.448.3040 ext. 111. or write to us using the address below.

James Bakke, J.D. Executive Director Attn: Generosity Today Editor 3801 Eagle Nest Dr. Crete, IL 60417 BarnabasFoundation.org/Generosity-Today

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LIFE STORY

Generations of Generosity L i f e S t o r y: R i c h & L a u r a

Generosity had always been part of Laura’s childhood. For Rich, it was a brand-new paradigm.

“It was not something I really thought about before marriage,” Rich remembers. “When we got married, Laura and I began the conversation about regular and intentional giving.”

Together, Rich and Laura are building a legacy that they pray will be passed on to their children and grandchildren.

“It has to be intentional,” says Laura. “We want to create generations of generosity.”

Like all couples, finding a shared groove – especially when it comes to giving – has required patience, prayer and countless conversations. Giving is a journey.

“I mean, I can’t say we didn’t struggle,” says Rich.

Laura says there is one shared belief that has driven their charitable mindset.

“I remember learning that ‘God owns it all,’” says Laura. “We can give because we want to help people or because it feels good. It’s a whole different thing when you realize this was never ours in the first place.”

“Hearing that for the first time was like a lightbulb going on,” she continues. “It changed the trajectory of how we handle everything. We want to put it all to good use. We want to be responsible.”

“Accumulation is not the goal,” adds Rich. “It’s become more about wealth for God’s Kingdom.”

Rich and Laura have a documented plan to make sure their God-given resources continue to be used wisely, well beyond their lifetimes. Their plan includes giving from their wills to support their favorite ministries.

“Hearing that for the first time was like a lightbulb going on. It changed the trajectory of how we handle everything.” - Laura

“I’m a planner by nature,” explains Laura. “I want to make sure everything is in place, that it’s all going to be taken care of. Having our plan in place has given us peace.”

“It’s a good feeling,” adds Rich, “to know that you are partnering with ministries that are doing meaningful work.”

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WHEN THE

GAME IS OVER Author and pastor John Ortberg tells the story of playing Monopoly as a child with his grandmother.

He remembers her as a ruthless competitor who often teased him as she won: “Don’t worry, Johnny.

Someday, you’ll learn how to play.”

As he grew older, John did, in fact, learn how to play – and he eventually drove his grandmother to board game bankruptcy. Gloating over his domination, he learned she still had one more lesson to teach him.

“When the game is over,” she said, packing up all his land, houses and hotels, “it all goes back in the box.”

Likewise, Jesus taught His disciples that everything we possess in this lifetime is temporary.

Our homes, our cars, our toys, our trinkets – eventually they won’t amount to anything if we only accumulate and hoard them for ourselves.

When we stake our happiness, success and worth in our earthly possessions, we’ll always come up short.

In the words of Jesus: “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and

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vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal.” (Matthew 6:19, NIV) Instead, Jesus challenges us to invest in those things that will last beyond a lifetime. Whether it’s our time, talents, influence or possessions, we’re called to give up everything in the pursuit of what really matters: loving God and loving others.

“But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”

(Matthew 6:20-21, NIV) When this game is over, what will truly matter?

Set your eyes and your heart on those things. God will take anything we give Him and multiply the impact far beyond our wildest dreams.

When we invest in God’s Kingdom and the people He loves, the dividends ripple throughout all eternity.

Everything else just goes back in the box.

Beyond Imagination T h e E n d u r i n g L e g a c y o f D a v i d Va n d e r P l o e g “Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.” - Ephesians 3:20-21 (NIV) David Vander Ploeg was among a small group of attorneys and businessmen whose expertise and vision launched Barnabas Foundation in April 1976. He served as the Foundation’s second executive director from 1993 to 2000, and he remained a passionate advocate for the organization well beyond his official “retirement” from that position.

From the beginning, Dave played a pivotal role in defining the objectives and principles that continue to guide Barnabas Foundation today. In a March 19, 1976 article for The Banner magazine – published one month prior to official incorporation – Dave described his vision for what the Foundation would become.

“Assistance and advice will be available to Christian organizations for the development and administration of existing or newly established planned-giving programs,” he wrote. “Barnabas Foundation also will have available a network of estate planners to advise and assist donors and their legal or financial advisors.”

What Dave described then continues to be an essential part of

Barnabas Foundation’s work.

As visionary as he was, even Dave couldn’t have predicted how the Lord would continue to bless and expand upon the founders’ original dreams.

In a September 21, 2000 speech for Barnabas Foundation’s 25th anniversary, the late co-founder Bill Weidenaar reflected on Dave’s initial reaction to a third co-founder’s estimate.

Bill recalled, “Case [Hoogendoorn] said, ‘You better be careful, because if we do this thing right, Barnabas Foundation someday could be handling $15 million.’

David and I reacted with slack-jawed stunned belief.”

“Dave was a mentor, a dear friend and foundational in my professional development as a leader,” says James Bakke, current executive director, who was hired under Dave’s leadership. “I will be ever indebted to him for the impact he made on my life.”

“He was always very generous and caring to me, quick to appreciate the work I did for him,” says Lynell Dykstra, current associate director of member relations, who served as Dave’s administrative assistant from 1994 through 2000.

“I thoroughly enjoyed working with him, and I’m grateful for his continued friendship over the years.”

Today, Barnabas Foundation’s impact is measured in billions, not millions, of dollars dedicated to Kingdom ministry around the world.

Those who worked closest to Dave remember him as gracious, dedicated, easygoing but brilliant and pure of heart. He was passionate about generosity being an expression of good stewardship.

David Vander Ploeg June 17, 1936 - November 20, 2023

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CONFLICT OF WILLS 5 Tips for Finding Common G r o u n d w i t h Yo u r S p o u s e

1. Put away your boxing gloves.

Don’t treat estate planning decisions as battles to be won or lost. Come to the conversation prayed up and determined to find common ground.

2. Acknowledge the struggle.

Talking about the “ifs” and “whens” of the future is difficult and likely very emotional. Acknowledge this challenge from the get-go; commit to listening and honoring one another.

3. Discuss shared values.

Planning for the future is easy for married couples who never disagree.

You have faith and values that have become the bedrock of your marriage. Take a step back from the expected distribution plan. What do you really want to accomplish and model to your loved ones through your plan?

For the other 99 percent of couples who sometimes view things differently (and the other 1% keeping their squabbles secret…wink, wink), there’s potential room for conflict.

4. Identify areas of difference or concern.

If talking about your estate plan creates friction between you and your spouse, here are a few tips to get on the same page.

5. Explore creative solutions.

Where do you see things differently? More importantly, why? Listen carefully to one another with the intent to understand.

Look for planning solutions that support your shared values and help you achieve your ultimate goals. (article continues)

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(Conflict of Wills, continued)

Many couples find it helpful to enlist the help of a trusted ally to guide them through these difficult conversations.

Experienced planners have waded in these deep waters many times before, and they can help you identify creative solutions to move forward.

Through Barnabas Foundation, you have access to this kind of trusted planning support.

At no cost to you, you can speak with someone who not only understands the tax-wise options available, but who also approaches planning from a values-driven, God-honoring perspective.

TALK TO A PLANNER To schedule your complimentary and confidential planning conversation, email planning@BarnabasFoundation.org or call 888.448.3040.

Healthy Conversations

Sharing What’s in Your Will & Why

ASK

BARNABAS Q: When should I consider updating my will?

A: People commonly update their wills related to important life occasions, like having a child or losing a loved one. But there are other subtle transitions that have implications for your estate plans.

•

Family. Have you or your children recently married, remarried or divorced?

Have you gained family members through birth, adoption or marriage?

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Charitable Relationships. Have you become more involved in a particular ministry?

•

Time. Has it been more than three years since you last reviewed your will?

These and other life transitions warrant a close review of your plans!

7 Reasons to Review Your Will Request your free copy by emailing info@BarnabasFoundation.org or call 888.448.3040

FREE ONLINE EVENT! February 21, 2024, 11 a.m. (Central)

Have Questions?

Talking to your family about your estate plan paves the way for healthy dialogue about your values, goals and legacy. During this free, online event, Barnabas Foundation’s Jim Bakke, J.D., will share practical tips about leading a fruitful conversation that prepares your loved ones for the future.

Email planning@BarnabasFoundation.org or call 888.448.3040.

LEARN MORE AND REGISTER: BarnabasFoundation.org/Interactive

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STEWARDS FUND Donor-Advised Fund

Christian Values. Exceptional Service. Streamlined Giving.

READY TO GET STARTED? Begin the simple process of setting up your Stewards Fund account today!

BARNABAS

BarnabasFoundation.org gifts@BarnabasFoundation.org 888.448.3040