June 25, 2 Corinthians 8
You’ve seen the commercials and received the mail. The pictures stir our hearts for the plight of people living in unimaginable poverty. The charities appeal to your compassion and conscience through two main avenues. They make you aware of the need, and give examples of how some famous person or maybe someone like you made a difference. They tell you how pennies a day could alleviate some of the suffering. Call the number on the screen. Have your credit card ready. Operators are standing by. And thank you.
Some organizations that raise money this way are very efficient, delivering a high percentage of revenues received to the intended recipients. We applaud their efforts. Unfortunately, other groups have been exposed as bloated, self-serving, fraudulent scam artists who exploit the
hardship of some to steal from the goodwill of others. It’s wise to get the facts.
Paul didn’t have video, still pictures, credit cards or toll-free numbers to raise money for needy Christians in Judea. But he used the same appeal model employed by modern charities—after telling about the need, he used an example to spur them to action.
The Macedonians’ demographics didn’t suggest that they would be good prospects to give. But they gave beyond their means, despite their own poverty and suffering. They weren’t begged to participate; they begged to participate. They didn’t think they were doing others a favor; it was a favor to be included. They surprised Paul with their generous, free-will gift. Paul said they gave by grace (which is, ultimately, the source of all we have and the inclination to share). He said they first gave themselves to the Lord. When you’ve given yourself, your stuff isn’t a problem.
Giving is more about one’s readiness than resources. The Macedonians had more joy in their hearts than money in their pockets. But like the widow who gave her last two coins, the Macedonians were willing to give. That, Paul said, is what makes the gift acceptable.
Generous giving expresses trust in leaders who handle the funds. Paul explained who would administer the gift and established their trustworthiness. Open, honest accounting is the key to credibility among organizations that collect and distribute money, from local churches to international charities. Donors are saying, “We trust you to do the right thing with this money.” (It’s wicked to betray that trust.)
Above all, giving proved their love. Paul called it an opportunity to show their love was genuine. By sharing what they had, they would be like the early Jerusalem church, where selfless sharing met the needs of every member. Like the ancient Israelites’ manna, none had too much or too little. Best of all, they would be like Jesus, who gave up everything for our sake.
The Macedonians teach us how to give. Paul and his associates teach us how to raise funds with integrity. In a world with a sharp distinction between the “haves” and “have nots,” we need both lessons.
From The Abiding Companion: A Friendly Guide for Your Journey Through the New Testament,
Copyright © 2010 by Michael B. McElroy. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
Today in God's Word—June 2024
East Tallassee Church of Christ
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