Barnabas Foundation Blog

One of the things I love about generous people is their faithfulness. They plant seeds of generosity often and in a variety of places. This is quite different than those who don’t have a generous mindset. For them, there’s always a reason to procrastinate or withhold. They say, “I would give, except…” or “I will give when…”

At their annual Scholarship & Donor Appreciation Dinner, Calvin Theological Seminary recognized Barnabas Foundation as this year’s recipient of their Legacy Award. Established in 2016, the Legacy Award is designed to recognize and cultivate philanthropic and charitable giving from one generation to the next.

Thanks to the generosity of God’s people, Barnabas Foundation recorded an unprecedented volume of giving in 2024, smashing all previous years’ records for gifts received and distributed through the Foundation.

Q: Who should I name as the executor of my will? A: Choosing the right executor for your will is crucial, as this person will fulfill your final wishes and manage your estate. They’ll handle decisions, pay debts, and ensure your gifts reach the people and ministries you’ve named. Selecting someone with integrity, care, and the ability to manage this responsibility wisely is key.

When planning for the future, there’s often a gap between what you envision happening and what actually unfolds. This is especially true when planning for what should transpire when we’ve gone to be with the Lord. Without clear communication, this gap can lead to stress, anxiety or conflict among loved ones. That’s why it’s crucial to have open, thoughtful conversations about your intentions.

Your estate plan is more than a legal document—it’s a reflection of your faith and values. By including gifts to ministries that have impacted your life, you create a legacy of hope and generosity. You also ensure your God-given blessings continue to make an eternal difference for His Kingdom.

When art dealer and author Forrest Fenn was diagnosed with terminal cancer in 1988, he hid a bronze chest in an undisclosed location, attempting to create the ultimate treasure hunt. He contemplated using that same location as his final resting place until – against all odds – he beat and survived the illness.

One of my great joys is serving generous Christians who find it fun to give. Consistently, Barnabas Foundation works with clients who embody these instructions from the Apostle Paul: “Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.” (1 Corinthians 9:7-8, NIV)