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Day 1: Embracing Self-Denial for Christ
In a culture that often promotes self-fulfillment and personal comfort, the call to self-denial stands in stark contrast. This journey is not about achieving one's own desires but about laying them down for the sake of following Jesus. It is a transformative process that requires believers to take up their cross daily, sacrificing personal ambitions to serve others and advance the Gospel. This act of surrender is not a one-time event but a continuous posture of the heart that aligns with the sacrificial love demonstrated by Christ. It is in this self-denial that one finds true purpose and the ability to impact the world for the Kingdom of God. [59:02]

"For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will find it. For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world and forfeits his soul? Or what shall a man give in return for his soul?" (Matthew 16:25-26 ESV)

Reflection: What personal comfort or ambition is God calling you to surrender today in order to follow Him more closely?

Day 2: Building a Legacy of Faith and Generosity
The legacy of a church is built upon the faith and generosity of its members, past and present. Reflecting on the church's history of mission work and community engagement, it becomes clear that collective action and faith have the power to transform lives and spread the Gospel. The future calls for a continuation of this legacy, with a focus on financial stewardship that honors God. By remaining debt-free and fully funding missions and ministry efforts, the church can ensure that its resources are used strategically for the Kingdom. This commitment to stewardship is an act of worship that extends beyond mere transactions; it is a reflection of the heart's alignment with God's purposes. [42:11]

"Only fear the Lord and serve him faithfully with all your heart. For consider what great things he has done for you." (1 Samuel 12:24 ESV)

Reflection: How can you contribute to the church's legacy of faith and generosity in a way that reflects your commitment to God's Kingdom?

Day 3: Aligning Hearts with God's Will
The Advance initiative is not about meeting financial targets but about seeking and aligning with God's will. It is a call to trust in God's provision and to be obedient to the prompting of the Holy Spirit. This spiritual alignment requires believers to listen attentively to God's direction and to offer their resources, talents, and time as acts of worship. It is in this obedience and trust that the church can move forward, confident that God will use their collective offerings for His glory, regardless of the size. [01:12:46]

"And he sat down opposite the treasury and watched the people putting money into the offering box. Many rich people put in large sums. And a poor widow came and put in two small copper coins, which make a penny. And he called his disciples to him and said to them, 'Truly, I say to you, this poor widow has put in more than all those who are contributing to the offering box.'" (Mark 12:41-43 ESV)

Reflection: In what ways can you align your heart with God's will today, trusting that He will use your unique contributions for His purposes?

Day 4: Prioritizing the Great Commission
The unwavering commitment to missions is a defining characteristic of the church's identity. By prioritizing the funding of missions through the Advance initiative, the church makes a bold statement that fulfilling the Great Commission is its top priority. This commitment reflects the church's DNA and its desire to see the Gospel reach every nation. It is a call to action for every member to consider how they can support the spread of the Gospel, both locally and globally, as an integral part of their faith. [41:27]

"And he said to them, 'The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few. Therefore pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest.'" (Luke 10:2 ESV)

Reflection: What specific action can you take this week to support the mission of spreading the Gospel in your community or around the world?

Day 5: Creating Spaces for Ministry and Community
The renovation and updating of church facilities are not merely for aesthetic purposes but are strategic efforts to create spaces that facilitate ministry and community. These physical changes are tools that serve the mission of making disciples and serving the city. The building itself is a vessel for worship, fellowship, and outreach, enabling the church to be a beacon of hope and a place where people can encounter the love of Christ. [49:42]

"And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near." (Hebrews 10:24-25 ESV)

Reflection: How can you use the physical spaces of your church to foster community and further the mission of making disciples in your own context?