We all have a little money set aside at the end of the year to give to charities and make sure we get that last minute tax write-off. Many times we give to what is most convenient or to the first commercial we see that tugs at our heart strings. But do we really know where that money is going to? I mean they say it is going to help starving children but is it really?? What I've found is that many of the most popular charities divide those donations in such a way that really only about 3% goes to the actual need that you are giving towards.
I say, instead, let's give our gifts to people who really need them. My home church, Metro Church of God in Birmingham, AL works with a ministry called Love In Action. Our members give money each month & many volunteer at the facility. This ministry provides food, clothing, appliances, help with bills, etc to families here in Birmingham who find themselves in need of some extra assistance.
Sure, some of those donations go to pay the light bill & rent, insurances, etc for the facility but the majority of it goes exactly where you think, to the families that need it! How do I know this? Growing up, there were several occasions where my family benefited from this ministry. We had Christmas because of the generosity of these donations and people. We had food on the table many months because it was provided by this ministry.
This year, as you give, please think about giving to these smaller, local ministries where you can see the benefits of your giving.
If if you don't know of a place, Love in Action can be given to through Metro Church of God (metroplitanchurch.net) or consider giving to our Education Ministry in Mexico (link below, *designate Little Builder's Preschool, Tijuana Mexico). When you give to a missionary, they are able to stay on the field for another month & continue God's work where you can't.
We are each called to give according to our gifts & abilities. Some give their time, some give their livelihood, some even give their lives. Perhaps your gift is financial.
I pray that God blesses you abundantly this Christmas season and that you can recognize His hand in your life even if the world around you is crumbling!
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