October Newsletter, 2018 Rick McPherson
Recently I was introduced to Simon Sinek’s book, “Start With Why.” He tells how leaders inspire others to take action, stating, “People don’t buy what you do; they buy why you do it.” Companies like Harley-Davidson, Apple and Southwest Airlines have discovered this truth and they have followers who identify with them on a personal level and who are loyal through thick and thin. It’s not so much about the what or the how, it’s about the why. Start with why. The why must be clear and precise. When you describe the how, you’re telling the values and principles of why you do what you do. These are disciplines. When people see and hear what you say and do they will discover the what of what you are doing.
So, I thought about it. I realized I talk more about how and what than why. Yet, why is the main thing. Why are we doing this ministry? Why?
There are three answers. The first is found in a directive that Jesus Himself gave to His disciples…”But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me… to the end of the earth.” Acts 1:8
The second is an experience that the founder of this ministry had in a horse corral in British Columbia. Overwhelmed by the dire need of Natives he cried out to God asking, “Why don’t You doing something?” His answer was, “Why don’t you?”
The third is my personal encounter on the Nez Perce Reservation in Lapwai, Idaho. After speaking to the Tribe in the city park I watched the distribution of grocery boxes from the back of an 18 wheeler. I asked if I could help and while doing so sensed the Lord impress on my heart, “This is what I want you to do.” The what and how became my why. That why was 12 years ago and continues to this day. Start with why.
Many who read this newsletter every month are interested in our what and how. But more important is the why. The why causes prayer. The why causes giving. The why causes loyalty. The why explains that we are taking the message of God’s love, acceptance and forgiveness to a people group, a culture that is often forgotten and ignored, Native Americans. They deserve to hear that Jesus is the Savior of the world …that He is God’s Son and whoever believes in Him will not perish, but have eternal life. How’s that for why? Let’s start with why.
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Where there’s smoke, there’s fire!
When our driver, Brad, backed in to the loading dock, the brake pedal went to the floor. Alarmed, he jumped out of the cab and saw smoke billowing from the rear dual tires. After extinguishing the fire he called me. He was safe and no one was injured but the rear brakes were another story! After a 50 ton wrecker delivered it to the repair shop I got the brutal news that the repairs would be $2,300.00, which included the tow!
On the positive side, all this happened in town and not last week coming home from Hermiston on I-84. Nevertheless, the estimate took my breath away. The shop is willing to work with us and take three payments, but it’s still a shock.
In the past, certain people have asked to please let them know when we have a special and unexpected financial need. Well, this is one of those times. Thank you in advance if you’re able to help us with an extra financial gift this month. And, God bless you!
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