#233 Focus

Amazingly, Children in Need raised a stunning £26 million in just one night. In spite of the economic crisis the British people have once again shown their immense generosity to needy people. But what is it about Children in Need that causes such an enormous outpouring of generosity and altruism?


Firstly, it is focussed. As the title says, it is about children – and those in need. Throughout the evening, real examples were shown of how the money in past years had been used and made a real difference to its recipients. It was not money being ploughed into a black hole and being gobbled up by administrative costs but it was being directed to those in need in order to – well – make a difference.

Secondly, it was about fun. All the projects which raised money had an element of enjoyment as well as sacrifice. It was also about community – people working together for a common goal. The Greek word for church – ekklesia – means just that – a gathering of people meeting for a common purpose – to worship and serve God.

Thirdly, it is for everyone. There is a stunning array of personalities from all walks of life from pop stars to weather girls to – errr – Terry Wogan. There’s no need to put on religious language or pretend to be holy – just be yourself and get stuck in – without embarrassment.

Interestingly, BBC Radio Nottingham is featuring the large churches in Nottingham all this week – churches like Trent Vineyard, Grace Church, Cornerstone and Talbot Street – all churches with congregations around 1,000 and above. The big news is that they are financially rich. Cornerstone have raised £4 million in the last 4 years and are in the process of redeveloping the former MFI building to make it into their new home. Ironically, this feature coincides with the introduction of the on-street parking charges on Sundays which is hitting the pockets of the members at some of the less well-off city centre churches hard.

Again, these large churches are focussed. Their worship is focussed on one building, not the many as is the case with traditional denominations. Their ethos is focussed primarily on mission – they know what they are about and every member is urged to take an active part. Also, the experience of worship is exciting. Yes it may be too loud and modern for some but it clearly attracts all ages, especially the young.

So, what about us? Are we focussed? Do we ask ourselves the question, ‘what am I really good at?’ Some of us (and I include myself in this) can run around like headless chickens attempting to do many things – some of which are not within our primary skill set. How much more fulfilled we would be if we simply focussed on our true calling. The same is true of some churches – they have loads of activities – some overlapping with or duplicating other activities. Would it not be better to ‘do less and do it well’? People are not attracted to things because they are local – they are attracted to things because they are good. So why don’t we resolve to concentrate on excellence rather than on volume? Let’s get focussed!