By Steve Crawley, PhD, Executive Director • BMA Financial
At the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio, a powerful image emerged from the 200-meter butterfly semifinal. Chad Le Clos, from South Africa, was glancing at Michael Phelps during the race — watching, comparing, trying to gauge his progress. Phelps, meanwhile, never looked sideways. He kept his eyes fixed on the finish line — and took home the gold. Le Clos didn’t place.
I came across this story in a blog by Adam Grossman, and it instantly struck me. That moment is more than an athletic snapshot — it’s a parable for life and stewardship.
In Hebrews 12:2, we are reminded to “fix our eyes on Jesus.” And when it comes to financial stewardship, especially as pastors and ministry leaders, we need to fix our eyes on the finish line as well — not retirement, but readiness; not escape, but effectiveness. That’s what we mean by your future-funded ministry — a season of life where you’re financially free to say “yes” to God’s call without constraint.
That’s why the BMA America Retirement Plan exists. BMA Financial walks beside you — not just to help you plan for the future, but to stay focused on it. Through wise counsel, solid investment options and ministry-minded support, we’re here to help you build a retirement account with purpose.
The race isn’t easy and distractions abound, but our prayer is that you’ll run with endurance, steward with wisdom and finish strong — with your eyes on Jesus and your plan in place.
We’re honored to help you get there.
At BMA Financial, we desire to assist you in becoming a better steward of God’s resources. Please let us know how we can help you. Contact us today at bmafinancial.org/contact. We are ready to serve you. Not a BMA Financial Member yet? Schedule a free Financial Assessment at bmafinancial.org to see how we can help you manage God’s money, God’s way, for God’s glory!
