By Kirk Eland, Volunteer, FCA Board of Trustees

THIS YEAR’S ANNUAL FCA THEME, “LET’S GO,” IS BRIEF BUT POWERFUL. IN SPORTS, WE OFTEN HEAR, “LET’S GO” USED AS A RALLYING CRY WHEN A TEAM IS ABOUT TO TAKE THE FIELD OR BREAK THE HUDDLE. IT’S A CHANT MEANT TO UNITE, FOCUS AND INSPIRE ATHLETES TO ACCOMPLISH THEIR GOAL AND WIN THE GAME.

The cry of, “Let’s Go” isn’t only for coaches and athletes at FCA; it’s also for those of us who invest in the ministry through our time, talent and treasure. Let’s consider both of these words one at a time.

LET’S.

Who is in the FCA team circle as we shout in unison, “Let’s Go”? Of course, FCA staff, coaches, athletes and student-leaders are in the circle. These team members are all critical to the success of FCA’s mission. We couldn’t imagine removing any one of these key players from the team at FCA. But they aren’t the only members critical to the huddle and “Let’s Go” rally cry. Donors are also included in this huddle, even if they are not as visible or obvious. Donors are just as critically important to the FCA team circle. Without them, there would be no FCA staff, Camps or Huddles. As donors, we play a significant role in fulfilling FCA’s vision to see the world transformed by Jesus Christ through the influence of coaches and athletes. FCA’s donors are a major part of the “Let’s” and must stand alongside others in the circle.

GO.

The word “Go” implies active engagement. Every member of a team must be actively engaged if a team wants to win; no one can be a passive bystander. “Go” also implies that a goal has been set, that the team is not aimlessly wandering. Jesus modeled this for believers with His words, “Go and make disciples of all nations.” As our leader, He clearly defined the goal set before us and commissioned us to actively engage in spreading the Gospel. We may not be running onto the field or taking the coach’s seat when we hear “Go” as donors, but we have a critical role to play.

We are stewards of what God has generously given us: time, talent and treasure. Our role on the FCA team is to steward and give of our resources to further God’s goal.

HOW TO “LET’S GO”

How do we get involved? First, we recognize that we are not on the front lines of the FCA ministry. That role belongs to the FCA staff, coaches and athletes. Our role is to support. In the Apostle Paul’s eyes, such a role in the body of Christ is just as critical as any other (Romans 12:8). Second, we give generously. God loves a generous and cheerful giver (2 Corinthians 9:6-15). Do you have time to give? Do you have talents to invest? Do you have the financial means to bless? Then do so generously and cheerfully! Third, we are to give judiciously. As stewards, we want to give where God’s Kingdom is advancing and where disciples are being made. In short, we want to give where God is moving. The last 65 years of ministry at FCA are a testimony of how much God has moved through this ministry. Millions of lives have been changed, and what’s even more exciting is that FCA is poised to do even more in the coming years! We donors have the opportunity to be a part of the FCA team and to actively engage by giving so we can see millions of lives changed for Christ. The Lord said, “I will be with you” as we go to fulfill His Great Commission. This means He too is part of the huddle. God is in the center of the FCA team circle. He’s the one leading all of us—coaches, athletes and donors—as we cry out together, “Let’s Go.”

Prayer: God, help me actively engage in FCA’s team. Show me how to be a good  steward of my resources, and not simply a consumer, who graciously gives and shares what you’ve given. Amen.

Born and raised in Seattle, Kirk found Christ during a stay in Orange County, California, during the Jesus People movement. He attended the University of Washington, became a CPA, and spent the last 25 years of his career as the COO and CFO of an insurance company in Seattle. Upon retirement in 2012, he moved to Atlanta with his wife, Laurie, and became involved with FCA, serving on a local board, on the metro Atlanta board, and currently on the FCA Board of Trustees. Kirk and Laurie are also actively engaged at their local church and enjoy traveling and spending time with their kids and grandkids.



-FCA-