In 2003, the Evangel Home Board of Directors approved an Endowment Program that includes many categories: Mustard Seed, Operations, Education & Programs, and Capital Improvements.

During that year's Christmas staff party, we decided to contribute to one of our endowment categories called the Mustard Seed. Since most of our staff struggles financially, this was not a decision we took lightly. It has now become an annual tradition for us.

The Mustard Seed was formed to meet future unmet needs we are not able to anticipate. Mark 4:31 and 32 provides a beautiful picture of how small beginnings can become bigger than we can imagine:

[The kingdom of God] “is like a mustard seed which, when it is sown on the ground is smaller than all the seeds on earth; but when it is sown, it grows up and becomes greater than all herbs; and shoots out large branches, so that the birds of the air may nest under its shade.” (NKJV)

While the other endowment categories depend on one-time gifts, the Mustard Seed, like the plant, must be tended. It is a simple plan, and within reach – even for those among us who struggle -- when we pool our resources. A Mustard Seed commitment is a one-time gift of $1,000 to “plant” the seed and then a yearly gift of $250 to nourish it.

We had a financial crisis last summer and I sent a letter to our supporters. I told them that without staff, Evangel Home has no programs. Without programs, we are not investing in the lives of our women and children. Without that investment in our residents, Evangel Home would be forced to emphasize survival rather than success, and merely surviving is what the women and children who come to us have done most of their lives.

Nearly 600 people responded to that “Crisis” letter bringing us nearly $120,000. The first responder was Roslyn, an Evangel Home graduate who holds down a full-time job and is also a part-time staff member with us. That is the picture of dedication. Such is the dedication of the staff members who sat around a table at our Christmas party and tied their Mustard Seed gifts to a little Christmas tree. It had taken us one year to pull together our $1,000.

One Mustard Seed check that was tied to the tree came with a card that said in part, “Thank you Evangel Home for what you have done in my life and the lives of others. We want to share God’s love with others, sow seeds and persevere. What an honor to give back to such a wonderful place as this. I love Evangel Home and its residents.”

Eighteen years ago Patty, the giver of that gift, came to us as a scared and confused young woman. She was isolated, withdrawn and totally without hope. Today she is our Head House Manager and in charge of one of our programs. She knows first-hand the value of having people invest in her, even when she thought she was not worth the investment.

We want to encourage your Sunday school class, club, or family and friends to plant your Mustard Seed...and watch lives grow and mature in Christ as a result!