The Nashville Baptist Association Annual Meeting is always a meaningful time for pastors, ministry leaders, and churches from across our city to gather. We worship together, celebrate what God has done, strengthen relationships, and look ahead to the opportunities He has placed before us.
This year, one of the lighter moments of the meeting was a giveaway for a new set of Takomo 201 golf irons. We hoped the giveaway would be fun and that the clubs would be a blessing to whoever received them. What we did not know was how personally and graciously God would use this simple gift.
Chris had been saving for quite some time to purchase a new set of irons. However, when an unexpected automobile repair arose, he had to use the money he had saved to meet that need.
Then, at the Annual Meeting, Chris’s name was drawn as the winner.
He was overwhelmed when he learned that he had won. His response captured the meaning of the moment beautifully:
“Such grace, Such grace. Thank you!”
What began as a simple giveaway became something much more. It was a reminder that God knows our circumstances, sees even the smaller desires of our hearts, and often chooses to demonstrate His care in unexpected ways.
Scripture tells us: The generous will prosper; those who refresh others will themselves be refreshed. – Proverbs 11:25 NLT
Paul also reminds us: Therefore, whenever we have the opportunity, we should do good to everyone – especially to those in the family of faith. – Galatians 6:10 NLT
Sometimes caring for people does not require a large program, an elaborate plan, or a dramatic moment. It simply requires recognizing the opportunity God has placed before us. It may be as simple as noticing a need, offering a gift, sharing what we have, or creating an opportunity to bring joy to someone else.
We may never fully know how God will use one act of generosity to remind another person that they are seen, valued, and loved.
That spirit of generosity reflects the heart of our association. Our churches come together not only to accomplish more in ministry, but also to care for one another, celebrate with one another, and help carry one another’s burdens.
We are thankful to everyone who helped make this giveaway possible. Most of all, we are grateful to God for allowing something as simple as a set of golf clubs to become a timely expression of His kindness and grace.
And once Chris receives his new irons, we look forward to meeting him on the golf course and teeing it up together. After all, some blessings are meant not only to be received, but also to be shared and enjoyed together.
Gary Morgan (Pastor at Story Church – Nashville, TN)
Church Planting Strategist
Nashville Baptist Association