GENEROSITY TODAY
Dear
Friend,
One of my great joys is serving generous Christians who find it fun to give. Consistently, Barnabas Foundation works with clients who embody these instructions from the Apostle Paul:
“Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.”
(1 Corinthians 9:7-8, NIV)
When we recognize how abundantly we’ve been blessed—and all the ways God can use those blessings for eternal good—giving becomes a cheer-filled activity!
In this issue, you will read a story about a couple who finds great joy and peace in giving beyond their lifetimes. You’ll also read practical tips for how you, too, can give in fun, impactful and God-honoring ways.
I pray the words of this issue encourage you! If we can further assist you in your generosity journey, it would be our cheer-filled honor.
Grateful to serve you,
James Bakke, J.D. Executive Director
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.
Attn: Generosity Today Editor
3801 Eagle Nest Dr. Crete, IL 60417
About Generosity Today
A Grandparent’s Gift
Lori & Bert’s Journey with Faith and Generosity
Lori and Bert have a firm policy regarding their youngest visitors.
“The grandkids get one kiss on the way in and two on the way out,” Lori says with a smile. Their home is routinely filled with the laughter of these nine little ones, who are always welcome there to swim, explore and play.
But Lori and Bert are focused on more than just fun. They embrace the grandparenting role as an opportunity and a calling to pass on the values they’ve lived by for decades: faith, family, and generosity.
Part of this emphasis comes from the lessons they picked up from their own families. Bert’s grandfather came to America with nothing but the clothes on his back. Then his father, having experienced both financial struggle and success, taught him from a young age the importance of giving back to God.
“I remember sitting at the kitchen table with my dad, figuring out our tithe,” Bert recalls. “It wasn’t optional—everything we have is God’s, and we give back what is His.”
Likewise, Lori recalls learning about stewardship from an early age. “I was raised in a Christian home,” she explains. “My parents taught me generosity. It wasn’t only their giving financially, but also giving of their time and talents.”
As they consider their legacy, Lori and Bert aim to make the ultimate statement to their kids and grandkids about what matters most to them. This includes having an estate plan in place to determine who will become the next stewards of their God-given resources.
“A portion of our estate will be set aside specifically for the ministries we love, right alongside the inheritance for our children,” explains Bert. “It’s been a game changer for us.”
“We want our grandkids to see the fruits of the Spirit in our lives,” Lori explains. “It’s a chance to teach them about patience and generosity.”
“I want to be remembered as the fun grandpa,” Bert chuckles. “But more importantly, I want to be known as someone who led by example and was always there when they needed advice or a listening ear.”
Lori agrees, adding, “I hope they remember that we walked with God, that we loved each other, and that we loved them.”
“We pray for them daily,” she adds, “and we want them to grow up knowing that everything we have is God’s and that we’re called to be good stewards of it. God has given us all a role to play in building His Kingdom. As grandparents, that means passing on our faith and values to the next generation.”
“We want our grandkids to see the fruits of the Spirit in our lives.”– Lori and Bert
Fenn’s Treasure and Faithless Hoarding
The OTHER Stewardship Sin
It’s not what you’d call the “typical” response to bad news.
When art dealer and author Forrest Fenn was diagnosed with terminal cancer in 1988, he hid a bronze chest in an undisclosed location, attempting to create the ultimate treasure hunt. He contemplated using that same location as his final resting place until – against all odds – he beat and survived the illness.
Twenty-two years later, Fenn self-published a memoir that described the gold coins, gemstones and artifacts held within that chest, plus a series of clues of where to find it. His book launched a decade-long frenzy of treasure hunters whose greed resulted in multiple trespassing and vandalism charges, several lawsuits and the death of five men who succumbed to the dangers of traversing rough, uninhabited terrain.
Finally, in 2020, the treasure was found—but again, not without issues. The finder, who planned to remain anonymous, was forced to reveal his identity due to legal battles about the rightful ownership of the chest’s artifacts.
The Master’s Intentions
As it turns out, burying your treasure creates a host of problems.
But Jesus could have told us that. As a matter of fact, He did!
In the Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25:14-30), Jesus tells about a man who was preparing for a trip and entrusted three of his servants to manage his wealth while he was gone. Two of the servants
invested the funds, reaping a profit to present their master when he returned. The master celebrated their shrewd behavior. To both, he said, “Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a little; I will set you over much. Enter into the joy of your master.”
(Matthew 25: 21b, 23b)
The third servant, however, buried his treasure because he feared the master’s wrath. Not only did the master call this third servant “wicked,” but he also took away the money he’d been given and cast him out into the darkness.
We often talk about the sin and perils of wasteful spending, but the opposite behavior is just as sinful and problematic. The Bible makes it clear: hoarding and burying our Godgiven resources goes against the Master’s intentions.
We can’t afford to bury what we’ve been given out of greed, fear or sloth. To those God has entrusted wealth, He expects wise and active stewardship. God’s money must be put to good use for Kingdom purposes and for His glory.
So how is God directing you to invest the resources He has entrusted you to manage?
Don’t bury the treasure!
You, good and faithful servant, have been entrusted with so much. Enter the joy of the Master by stewarding earthly resources for God’s eternal good.
3 WAYS TO SUPPORT MINISTRIES BEYOND YOUR LIFETIME
Your estate plan is more than a legal document—it’s a reflection of your faith and values. By including gifts to ministries that have impacted your life, you create a legacy of hope and generosity. You also ensure your God-given blessings continue to make an eternal difference for His Kingdom.
But how do you give from your estate? Here are three impactful options to consider.
1. Direct Gifts in Your Will
Designate a specific amount or percentage of your estate to a ministry directly in your will. This is a simple and powerful way to fund life-changing projects, sustain vital outreach, or ignite new opportunities for ministry growth.
2. Beneficiary Designations
Name one or more charities as beneficiaries of your retirement accounts, life insurance, or other assets. This approach often reduces the tax burden in your estate, thereby protecting your loved ones and allowing more of your resources to be used for God’s purposes.
3. Give through Barnabas Foundation
Barnabas Foundation can help you simplify and streamline the process of giving to one or more ministries. Simply name Barnabas Foundation as the charitable beneficiary, and then let us know exactly how you would like the funds distributed at the proper time. Our experienced team will manage your gift with wisdom and care, ensuring it reaches your chosen ministries. To learn more about giving through your will using Barnabas Foundation and to request the proper forms to give in this way, call 888.448.3040 or email info@BarnabasFoundation.org.
Regardless of the method you choose, your gifts will leave a lasting imprint, extending your influence beyond your lifetime.
The Roadmap to Your Completed Will
Is your will completed and up-to-date? Take the next step toward a thoughtful, God-honoring plan.
Call 888.448.3040 or email info@BarnabasFoundation.org to request your copy of “The Roadmap to Your Completed Will” today.
BA RNABAS ASK
Q: Who should I name as the executor of my will?
A: Choosing the right executor for your will is crucial, as this person will fulfill your final wishes and manage your estate. They’ll handle decisions, pay debts, and ensure your gifts reach the people and ministries you’ve named. Selecting someone with integrity, care, and the ability to manage this responsibility wisely is key.
Two options to consider:
1. A trusted friend or family member: Many choose a loved one who understands their values and wishes. This personal connection can be meaningful, but remember that managing an estate is time-consuming and emotionally challenging, especially during a time of loss. Be sure they are willing and capable of handling the responsibility.
2. Professional executor: For complex estates or to relieve loved ones of the burden, a professional, such as a bank trust department, might be a better fit. Professionals bring expertise and impartiality, ensuring your estate is managed efficiently and according to your wishes. Though fees are involved, the peace of mind is often worth it.
Ultimately, the best choice depends on your goals and circumstances.
Have Questions?
Email info@BarnabasFoundation.org or call 888.448.3040.
CRITICAL CONVERSATIONS
Bridging the Gap Between Expectations and Reality
When planning for the future, there’s often a gap between what you envision happening and what actually unfolds. This is especially true when planning for what should transpire when we’ve gone to be with the Lord. Without clear communication, this gap can lead to stress, anxiety or conflict among loved ones.
That’s why it’s crucial to have open, thoughtful conversations about your intentions. In these conversations, here are three meaningful things to share.
1. Your Guiding Values
Your estate plan isn’t just a financial arrangement; it’s a reflection of your faith, principles and priorities. Explain the “why” behind your decisions. If you want to support ministries that have shaped your journey or feel called to extend God’s love to others, make sure to share that vision. Discussing your values gives your family a deeper understanding of your heart and can inspire them to carry on your legacy of faith and generosity.
2. Your Goals
In what ways do you hope to ensure loved ones are cared for, financially secure and best prepared for long-term success? Are there specific causes or ministries you feel called to support, like missions or community outreach? Being transparent about your goals reduces uncertainty and helps your family know how best to honor your wishes. Sharing your vision fosters a shared purpose, making it clear that your plan reflects thoughtful stewardship.
3. The Logistics of Your Plan
Practical details matter. Talk about who will carry out your wishes, how resources will be distributed and any special instructions. Walking through these logistics ensures your family feels prepared and confident. This transparency minimizes stress and confusion, allowing loved ones to focus on honoring your intentions and providing reassurance when it is needed most.
Initiating these conversations can feel daunting, but don’t let fear or anxiety get in the way of providing your loved ones with an incredible gift! By having these crucial conversations now, you help close the expectation gap, paving the way to unity, clarity and peace.
Family Meetings
Join Barnabas Foundation’s Steve Baker, J.D., for a free, 20-minute interactive event, including time for Q&A.
Discover how to hold meaningful family meetings about your estate plan to share values, communicate dreams and clarify goals. Learn practical steps to ensure your plan aligns with your faith and heartfelt wishes—creating a legacy of generosity and purpose that blesses loved ones and supports God’s Kingdom work beyond your lifetime.
