We're "a shop that tangibly connects God's people to the work He is doing around the world through partnerships with missional businesses". But what exactly is a misisonal business? One definition of missional business is a business that has impact in each of four areas, called the four bottom lines: Spiritual, Social, Economic, and Environmental. These principles have been foundational in our journey over the past three years, and we're excited for the opportunity to partner with other businesses following biblical directives!
Economic
Like other businesses, missional businesses seek economic impact. This means making a profit and being able to provide jobs for people, which is key to poverty alleviation. This means good stewardship of the resources God has given and response to God's instruction at the very beginning to be fruitful and multiply (Genesis 1:28). This doesn't mean it's all about money; instead, it means using resources wisely to further God's Kingdom.
Spiritual
The fire inside us is to see Jesus being made known - in the far corners of the earth and more and more every day in each of our hearts. The Great Commission is to make disciples of all nations (Matthew 28:19-20). Missional businesses have a beautiful opportunity to do that. Businesses can enter areas that would otherwise be closed to the gospel. Businesspeople walk day-to-day in the community and with their employees, which gives them opportunities to share Christ and disciple others. Missional businesses are intentional about discipleship. This piece is critical, because people need to know!
Environmental
In the Garden of Eden, God gave Adam and Eve what is called the Great Commitment: to be fruitful, multiply, replenish the earth, and subdue it (Genesis 1:28). God made humans stewards over the earth. That’s why environmental impact is one of the four bottom lines of missional businesses. Physical resources are given by God and we are responsible to use them according to His design. He’s not a God of waste or abuse, so missional businesses do their best to operate according to these principles!
Social
Love your neighbor as yourself. It’s part of the Great Commandment (Mark 12:31) and one of the 4 bottom lines of missional business: social impact. Businesses are involved in the daily lives of people and the community. There are so many opportunities to serve others well and better the local community. Social impact could be hiring marginalized people, donating to those in need, making improvements to shared spaces, and so many other things! It’s being the hands and feet of Jesus and living that out through business.
You might be wondering: Will every single business cover all four bottom lines? The truth is, many of the creators we work with are starting small, with the limited resources and training they have. Not every business will cover all four bottom lines. However, each of the companies we work with will be a company that’s about more than profit. We’re committed to working with brands that have heart behind them.
We’re so excited to meet some new creators in the coming weeks, and we’re already getting excited to share their stories with you! Be sure to check out the Araya Collective to be a part of these stories yourself🙌🏽