How I Found Myself in Israel and Day 1

----Masada from above----

My friend Gunnar is a tribe leader in the area of Stewardship. He is the Executive Stewardship Pastor for Gateway Church in Southlake, Texas. We’ve been friends for several years now.

Gateway is looking at taking the message of stewardship to their partners globally. They wanted to start in Israel and was curious to see if I wanted to come along and help them…ummm…yes?

So it was with the purpose of exploring Israel and it’s stewardship needs that Gunnar, myself, and seven other amazing other guys  embarked. All seven of the guys were incredible strategic thinkers and 5 of them are successful business owners/leaders. Would there be a way to use our gifts and experiences to serve the Messianic followers there?

-Day 1-

I had just presented at our Crown ignite! Training in Kansas City (more on this later), so I showed up a day later than all of them. While I missed their tour of Jerusalem, I was able to catch up with them on the second day. The excitement was about to begin.

After driving down in two vans to the Dead Sea and Masada (click here for more on this amazing place), we attended a local congregation. I cannot say too much about the location or the names involved because of the recent struggle they’ve had being recognized as a legitimate stain of the Jewish faith (one that simply believes their Messiah has come).

They’ve faced some pretty harsh persecution.

However, they met very near to the Mediterranean coast, and had an incredible spirit to them. They are passionate about delivering the news of Messiah to those around them, and will not stop for anything. They made us one of the most incredible meals I have ever had, complete with chicken, beef and lamb spiced to perfection!

They shared their vision with us, and their challenges to achieving that vision. The number one challenge?

You guessed it.

A lack of understanding of stewardship. Gunnar and I gave each other a nod.

God was up to something.