Preparations: Where We’re Going and How We’re Leaving

Today, my family and I are heading out on a trip to St. Louis to visit relatives for the weekend. As we packed bags and loaded the car, I couldn’t help but notice how much goes into not just preparing for where we’re going, but also for how we’re leaving.

Outside the house, we’ve made sure things are buttoned up. The neighbors are watering the plants and grabbing the mail. Trash cans are pulled up from the curb. You get it.

Inside, my wife has a strict “no mess left behind” rule. I actually have come to like this rule. Coming home to chaos kills any peace you had while returning. So, beds are made. Carpets are vacuumed (yes, that’s my job). The dishwasher is running, and everything will be in order when we walk out the door.

It struck me that preparing to leave, and leaving well, are skills we often possess, but don’t always practice intentionally. We instinctively want to leave things neat, cared for, and complete. Why? Because no one likes walking back into a mess. And because we recognize that, sometimes, we don’t come back the same way we left — or at all.

The same principle applies to life transitions, leadership, and legacy.

None of us can complete every task, forever. Eventually, someone else will need to take up the mantle. Whether it’s a job, a role in a ministry, a family tradition, or a relationship dynamic — how we leave matters. Leaving behind order, clarity, and encouragement honors the people who come after us.  And it honors God.

Let’s look at a biblical example of someone who lived this out with integrity.

David: Preparing to Leave and Empowering the Next Up

King David had a deep desire to build a temple for God — a permanent house of worship. But God said no, because David had been a man of war and bloodshed (1 Chronicles 28:3). Instead, God chose his son Solomon to build it.

David could have responded with frustration or disappointment. But instead, he leaned into what was still his to do. He prepared the way for Solomon and for the entire nation.

“You are not to build a house for My Name... but your son Solomon will build it...” (1 Chronicles 28:3, 6)

Rather than resisting God’s “no,” David embraced his role. One of the most powerful ways we finish well is by knowing when our assignment ends and someone else’s begins.

David Gave the Plans

“All this,” David said, “I have in writing as a result of the Lord’s hand on me...” (1 Chronicles 28:19)

David didn’t just say, “Good luck, Solomon.” He handed over detailed blueprints — divinely inspired plans for the temple’s structure and sacred objects. He gave Solomon clarity. Spiritual and strategic preparation.

David Gave Resources

“With all my resources I have provided for the temple of my God...” (1 Chronicles 29:2)
“In my devotion... I now give my personal treasures...” (v. 3)

David gave generously from his own wealth and led the people to do the same. He invested in a project he’d never personally complete — a model of sacrificial leadership and long-term vision.

David Gave Glory to God

“Wealth and honor come from You... You are the ruler of all things.” (1 Chronicles 29:12)

Even in transition, David didn’t make it about himself. He led the people in praise and worship, reminding everyone that this wasn’t about a king — it was about God.

David didn’t finish the temple. But he finished his part. He prepared the space, the people, and the leader. He made things clean, clear, and ready.

Back to You and Me

So yes — I’m about to go vacuum the living room. But this little trip reminded me that we all have spiritual “spaces” we need to clean up before stepping into what’s next.

Are you preparing others for a road you’ve been walking?

Is there a project, relationship, or role you need to hand off with care?

Is there something messy that needs to be tidied in case you're called elsewhere?

Take a glance around your world today — physically, emotionally, spiritually — and ask:

• What needs cleaned?

• What needs made clear?

• Who needs to be ready?

Let’s be people who don’t just go places, but leave well — with grace, intention, and legacy in mind.

-Mark

Interruptions and New Assignments

The Wrinkle in Our Plans

Kicking off the week is always an exciting time for me. Sunday nights are when the weekend winds down, and preparation mode kicks in. I start mapping out the week ahead—goals, meetings, to-dos.

Monday mornings come early. By noon, our team has already reviewed past performances, evaluated upcoming priorities, and aligned on the communications needed for our partners and clients. It’s a fun rhythm. Everyone’s locked in, ready to execute their assignments.

But every now and then, a wrinkle shows up. Something we didn’t plan for. A curveball that demands our attention—personally or professionally.

This week for my family, it came in the form of a sick second grader who needed care, comfort, and time. No matter how much we plan or prepare, life has a way of handing us a new assignment. Sometimes, that new thing becomes the main thing.

Jesus Interrupted (Mark 5:21–43)

I’m reminded of how Jesus handled moments like this.

In Mark 5, Jesus had just crossed the sea when Jairus, a synagogue leader, approached Him, urgently begging Him to come heal his dying daughter. Jesus agreed and set out immediately. The mission was clear, time was critical.

But then...an interruption. A woman, who had been bleeding for 12 years, quietly touched the edge of His cloak in the crowd. She believed that one touch could heal her. And it did.

Now, Jesus could’ve kept walking. The healing already happened. But He stopped. “Who touched Me?” He asked. His disciples were baffled. People were pressing in everywhere.

Still, Jesus waited. The woman came forward trembling, and Jesus said, “Daughter, your faith has healed you. Go in peace.”

That moment wasn’t just about physical healing. It was about seeing her, affirming her, and restoring her fully in body, soul, and dignity.

And while it looked like Jairus’ daughter had died during the delay, Jesus still went and raised her from the dead.

What can we learn from Jesus?

• Jesus wasn't rushed, even on a critical mission.

• The interruption was just as important as the destination.

• When led by compassion, we make time for people—not just plans.

• God’s timing may feel inconvenient, but it’s never wrong.

So wherever today finds you -  executing flawlessly or already off track - be ready for the unexpected. That side conversation, that minor disruption, that detour—it might not be the thing you planned for...

But it just might be the main assignment.

Today, for me and my son, I know that’s exactly what it was.

-Mark

Big Game Moments: Prep Like David

Big Games: Prepping with God

As an athlete, I can vividly remember the way I felt on game days. Specifically, when we were playing a rival or a top-ranked opponent, the anticipation was awesome. Even if we were favored to win the buildup to those matches was an experience in itself. I had a specific prep routine—eating at a certain time, wearing particular warm-up gear, and even having a specific trainer tape my ankles. Looking back now, it all seems a little crazy, but it was my way of mentally and physically preparing.

Now that I’ve transitioned into the world of business and funding nonprofit work, I realize that I still have "big games" to prepare for. These are the moments where hard work culminates with a major event. These moments are exciting and require even more preparation than the matches I once played. But I’ve incorporated one crucial routine that was missing from my college playing days—bringing my goals, thoughts, words, and timelines before the Lord.

Taking time to ask God what He thinks and listening for His voice has provided not only guidance but also peace and assurance along the way. I first learned this principle from scripture, particularly from David.

David’s Preparation Before Battle 

First Battle – Baal Perazim (2 Samuel 5:17-21)

The Philistines Attack:

• When the Philistines heard that David had become king, they marched to the Valley of Rephaim to attack him.

• Instead of reacting immediately, David went before the Lord to ask if he should engage.

David Inquires of the Lord:

• “Shall I go and attack the Philistines? Will you deliver them into my hands?” (v. 19)

• The Lord answered: “Go, for I will surely deliver the Philistines into your hands.”

Victory at Baal Perazim:

• David followed God’s command, defeated the Philistines, and named the place Baal Perazim, meaning “The Lord who breaks out”, because God broke through the enemy like a flood.

• The Philistines abandoned their idols, which David and his men carried away.

Second Battle – The Sound in the Balsam Trees (2 Samuel 5:22-25)

The Philistines Return:

• The Philistines regrouped and attacked again in the same valley.

• Instead of assuming the same strategy, David inquired of the Lord again.

God’s New Strategy:

• This time, God told David not to attack head-on but to circle behind them and wait near the balsam trees.

• God gave a specific sign: “As soon as you hear the sound of marching in the tops of the trees, move quickly, because that will mean the Lord has gone out in front of you to strike the Philistine army.” (v. 24)

David Obeys and Wins Again:

• David followed God’s strategy exactly, and the Philistines were completely defeated from Gibeon to Gezer.

Our Takeaways from David’s Approach:

• He always inquired of the Lord instead of relying on past experiences.

• God’s guidance was specific—David wasn’t told to use the same strategy twice.

• Victory came through obedience—David waited for God’s timing and direction.

• The Lord fought for him—the sound in the trees signified God’s presence leading the charge.

This passage is a powerful lesson on seeking God's direction before making big decisions, even when we think we already know what to do.

Today, I have a "big game" moment for our foundation. Spending time in the presence of the Lord this morning has given me peace and provided clear direction for the event. I’m grateful for the amazing examples we have in the Bible.  These real-life stories continue to show us the way.

When is your next "big game"? Make sure to take time with God as part of your prep!

-Mark

Intentional Steps: Learning from the Mountain

My family and I are enjoying a quick Spring Break trip to Arizona. The blue skies are truly a blessing. In my opinion, one of God's greatest gifts is feeling His sun shining on your face and warming your body. In Ohio, we go without this blessing for a few months every year, so it's nice to have a day or two of reprieve in some sunshine.

Today, we hiked Camelback—our third year in a row. The reasons we love it are that it's close, familiar, and always presents a small challenge. It's not an easy trail or a paved walkway. It’s uphill, requiring you to climb over boulders and use both your hands and feet. The way up is great, but it's the way down that requires more careful focus and attention. One misstep and you could take a dangerous tumble.

God is so good that He embeds little life lessons into His creation—they're everywhere we turn. Today as we hiked, I was reminded of how I often feel in business: sometimes focused on the long-term future, but mostly concentrating on the day-to-day. On the mountain, we stopped to look "up" every now and then to see where we were going, but the majority of our attention was glued to our very next step. Isn't that how it is? Depending on the cycle of business we're in, we may have more time to dream and plan for the long-term vision, or we may be in a spot where a dangerous misstep could actually hurt.

Each day is important, and right now I think many of us are feeling that more than ever with the changing landscapes we've faced over the past few years. I'm reminded of a simple but profound quote from Jesus in Matthew 6:34:
"Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own."

Every day, every step, every decision has an impact on the "right now." Our daily attention and commitment to our various missions are important, but it's the little things and the actions we take with others where the real mission comes to life. Like on the mountain, I cannot reach my goal just by staring at it—I have to walk, even when I'm tired or when it hurts.

Today, I learned from God's amazing creation and the words of His Son: keep taking intentional steps. It's okay to have an aim, but focus more on being excellent today. Tomorrow will worry about itself.

-Mark

Milestones: Important Dates Matter!

Milestones: Remembering and Commemorating Our Journey

Today marked a milestone for our team—two years since anyone in the world saw or heard about our Tithe brand. While the time itself isn’t what makes this moment significant, the people we’ve influenced along the way certainly do. The longer I’m in business, the more I realize that the true measure of success isn’t just revenue, profit, or statistical growth (though those things have their place). Instead, it’s the impact we have on others that truly matters.

During today’s team meeting, we took time to share stories, and not one of them was about numbers. Instead, they were about the fun we’ve had and the influence we’ve shared with those we serve. That’s the good stuff. I’d run through a wall to keep leading this team, not just because of what we do, but because we are running together for a bigger mission.

On my drive in, I reflected on how God emphasizes remembrance and milestones throughout Scripture. In the Old Testament, He set aside numerous times for His people to reflect, celebrate, and draw closer to Him:

1. The Sabbath (Exodus 20:8-11) – A weekly sacred time of rest and worship.

2. Passover & The Feast of Unleavened Bread – Remembering Israel’s deliverance from Egypt.

3. The Feast of Firstfruits (Leviticus 23:9-14) – Giving the first harvest to God in gratitude.

4. The Feast of Weeks (Pentecost/Shavuot) (Leviticus 23:15-22) – Marking the wheat harvest and the giving of the Law at Sinai.

5. The Feast of Trumpets (Rosh Hashanah) (Leviticus 23:23-25) – A time of reflection and preparation.

6. The Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur) (Leviticus 16; 23:26-32) – A sacred day of fasting and repentance.

7. The Feast of Tabernacles (Sukkot) (Leviticus 23:33-44) – A joyful festival celebrating God’s provision.

8. The Feast of Dedication (Hanukkah) – Though not part of the original Law, a celebration of rededication.

Even as Christians today, we continue to celebrate sacred milestones such as Christmas and Easter, which hold eternal significance. Each of these moments of remembrance was designed to commemorate something special—whether between people or between people and God.

When we take time to pause and recognize milestones, we gain clarity, peace, hope, and renewed energy for the journey ahead. I’m grateful we were able to do that in a small way as a team today.

What milestones do you have coming up? How can you take time to celebrate or reflect? Enjoy those moments with the people you’re running with!

-Mark

The Juggling Act | Staying Rooted When Stretched Thin

This week, there seems to be a common theme among many of the folks I've met or spoken with. For some reason, life seems to be bringing opportunities, but with them comes conflict.  Each opportunity demanding our time and attention. This isn't an isolated problem. In our fast-paced world, where speed and efficiency are king, most of us (myself included) tend to get anxious when things feel out of order or when our output doesn’t match our expectations.

We say yes to commitments that sound great on their own, but when combined, they stretch us to our limits. These are symptoms of a "do more, get more, show more" society that moves on quickly once a goal is accomplished. There isn’t an easy cure for this mindset, and sometimes it isn’t even wrong. However, it can often rob us of our real purpose—or at the very least, exhausts us as we try to keep it alive.

Jesus warned us about this in Matthew 13 through the Parable of the Sower.

The Parable of the Sower

Jesus tells the story of a farmer who goes out to sow seeds. The seeds fall on four different types of soil, each representing a different kind of person and how they receive God’s Word:

1. The Path (Hardened Soil) – The seed falls on the path but is quickly eaten by birds. This represents people who hear the message but don’t understand it, and Satan snatches it away before it takes root.

2. The Rocky Soil – The seed grows quickly but has no deep roots, so it withers under the sun. This represents people who receive the message with joy but fall away when trouble or persecution comes.

3. The Thorny Soil – The seed grows, but thorns (weeds) choke it, preventing it from bearing fruit. Jesus explains that the thorns represent the worries of life, the deceitfulness of wealth, and the desire for other things (Mark 4:19).

   • Application: This is the person who is constantly juggling work, money, responsibilities, and personal ambitions. Their heart is divided, making it hard to grow spiritually or find peace.

4. The Good Soil – The seed falls on good soil, grows deep roots, and produces a great harvest. These are the people who hear the Word, understand it, and apply it to their lives.

How It Relates to Juggling Responsibilities & Finding Peace

The thorny soil is especially relevant here because it represents people who feel overwhelmed by life’s pressures.  Work, finances, relationships, and personal ambitions all have a way of complicating our decision making and use of time. These things can "choke" spiritual growth, leaving us restless, anxious, and spiritually unfulfilled.

Jesus' message is clear: If we let worries and distractions dominate our hearts, they will rob us of the peace and purpose God intends for us.

The solution is to cultivate good soil—a heart that prioritizes God’s Word over the endless to-do lists, ambitions, and pressures of life. This doesn’t mean ignoring responsibilities but rather keeping God first and trusting Him with the rest.

If you feel like you’re being pulled in too many directions, you probably are. We want to be rooted in good soil, so if you find yourself among too many thorns, it may be time to re-evaluate. Your faith, your well-being, and even those around you may thank you for it!

-Mark

Long-Term Dreams + Short-Term Strategy

Balancing Long-Term Vision with Short-Term Strategy

It's funny how often a common struggle emerges in my weekly conversations: the tension between trusting God with long-term dreams while effectively managing the short-term realities of business. Often, trust feels like complete surrender—diving headfirst into a calling while ignoring tangible obstacles. However, feeling the need to prepare and strategize is not a sign of wavering faith. It can be a sign of wisdom and discernment.

The Example of Joseph: Trust and Strategy

Joseph, in the book of Genesis, had a God-given dream of leadership (Genesis 37:28). Yet, before seeing that dream fulfilled, he endured betrayal, slavery, and false accusations (Genesis 39:20). Even in adversity, he remained faithful and used his God-given wisdom to interpret dreams (Genesis 40).

When Pharaoh had troubling dreams, Joseph not only interpreted them but also provided a clear plan:

• Store 20% of the harvest during the seven years of plenty.

• Build storehouses to preserve food.

• Distribute food wisely during the years of famine (Genesis 41:33-36).

God Blessed His Planning

Because of his wisdom and preparation, Pharaoh elevated Joseph to second in command (Genesis 41:41-43). His strategic planning saved Egypt and neighboring nations, including his own family, fulfilling God’s promise (Genesis 41:57).

Planning is Part of God's Plan

Don’t fear the details surrounding your dream; they matter. God doesn’t make mistakes, and often, preparation is His way of guiding you. Your learning and journey bring you closer to Him. Stay in step with God as you plan—move with the Holy Spirit, and pay attention to what He is placing in your path.

Let’s embrace both faith and strategy as we walk in our calling.

-Mark