Southeastern family gives over $60,000 so that ‘all peoples may know him’

by Lauren Crane

Southeastern Seminary students, faculty and staff were blessed this week to be able to donate money and gifts in excess of $60,000 to support the International Mission Board in a time of economic hardship.

The school, under the leadership of President Daniel Akin, was challenged to give to the International Mission Board during a special time of offering. On Tuesday, August 25, and Thursday, August 27, the Southeastern family gave financially to support the work of foreign missions, hoping to provide some relief to a nearly $30 million dollar giving deficit.

The most poignant gift to appear in the offering plates was a diamond engagement ring, a matching wedding band, and a note, featuring a picture of Lottie Moon, with the words, “For Lottie.” The ring set, which is being appraised, was only oneexample of the sacrifice students made to make sure that all people who have been called may have the chance to go to the nations, so that all the nations may have the chance to hear of salvation in Jesus Christ.

“I have always known that Southeastern is a Great Commission seminary that has the nations on her heart. Still, I underestimated the sacrifices this family is willing to make to see that the unreached peoples of the world have the opportunity to hear the gospel of King Jesus,” Akin said.

In June, Akin announced his intentions to host a special offering during the convocation service at Southeastern, and the opportunity to give to the IMB was extended into Thursday’s chapel service. During Tuesday’s service, which was led by David Nelson, senior vice president for academic administration, those gathered gave $22,410. On Thursday, the giving amounts increased, with the offering buckets being filled with $24,735. Additionally, more than $11,000 was given to Southeastern by donors and designated for the offering.

“The fact that gifts to reach the lost included an engagement ring and wedding bands caused me to weep tears of joy. I am still rejoicing!” Akin said. “I do not have the words to express my thanksgiving  for what happened this week on our campus.

“God is doing something wonderful among his people as we refocus on His glory and the good of the nations,” Akin said. “My prayer is this spirit will spread like a wildfire across our nation and around the world – that all may know of a savior whose name is Jesus.”