Mission Possible Accomplished

John Wesley, the founder of Methodism, insisted that we should be “going on towards perfection.” We might not attain it, but that was the goal. He believed we must always be improving; not maintaining (or declining). He was industrious and hardworking. “Man was not born in shades to lie” was one of his famous quotes. I remember J.C. McPheeters, the President of Asbury Theological Seminary, who went water-skiing to celebrate his 90th birthday. He said, “If you slow down, you go down.”

We are not slowing down at Asbury! We are always trying to get better and grow. I personally want this, too. I want to be part of an organization that is stretching and straining to reach the world for Christ. (Wesley’s most famous quote was: “The world is my parish.” He did not reverse the order and say “The parish is my world.”)

“Mission Possible” has been an attempt to improve and grow. We’ve added significant space to our Children’s facility. “Kids Come First!” was Jesus’ mindset. “Let the children come to me, don’t forbid them!” he told the disciples who were more adult-friendly than kid-friendly. If we don’t reach our children and students our church will die. It will take a few years, but the downward arc of lack of activity, energy, and growth will eventually defeat us. And if we don’t reach kids for Christ, other cultures who are not particularly friendly to the Christian faith will reach them.

“Mission Possible” has opened up a new building named “Venue 68.”* This building located southeast of our main campus, is going to be open to all groups, but will primarily be a hub for our Student Ministries. The 11 a.m. chapel worship service is moving there. We will see a signifi - cant increase in the number of students participating now that they have a building specifi cally designed for them. They will be having a lot of concerts as well. Our prayer is that this will be an outreach center for Asbury that we’ve never been able to do before. We are very optimistic about our future.

Thank you to all who have supported “Mission Possible!” We still have a race to run in finishing strong in this campaign, but the end is in sight. Now that we are moved in, it is very important that we complete our pledges (Dana and I are still working on ours—it was for three years ending in May 2009). To God Be the Glory! Let’s Make Disciples Together.

Dr. Tom Harrison

*The name, “Venue,” was already reserved by another organization, so we simply added “68” to it. This comes from Micah 6:8: “He has showed you, O man, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.”

Financial Update (Updated 7/25/08)

Of the $12.2 million pledged for Mission Possible we have received $9,268,703 million which is on track with expectations. We want to express thanks to everyone who is contributing to this very important project. We still need the help of everyone. If you have not yet made a pledge and would like to, or if you want to make a contribution without a pledge, please contact our finance office at 392-1136.