I've been pondering for some time how to initiate a ministry within the realm of benevolence. I struggle with how to describe it because I do not want to narrow its scope prematurely. Benevolence generally conjures thoughts of physical/financial need. That is certainly a big part of what I envision, but I see possibilities for far more. More than giving a product to someone, I'm wondering how we "the more fortunate" might get involved productively with someone who is struggling. A matching of someone's excess with someone else's need. How can we pair one's strength with another's weakness. This quote captures the essence of what I'm expressing:
I don't believe in charity. I believe in solidarity. Charity is so vertical. It goes from the top to the bottom. Solidarity is horizontal. It respects the other person and learns from the other. I have a lot to learn from other people. - Eduardo Galeano
I would like to start it with a meeting of interested people. The initial meeting will primarily function as a think tank. We will talk out some ideas, consider some possibilities, etc. I have a handful of people (within or closely associated with Sunshine) to consider. We can discuss needs and search for opportunities that we can extend genuine love and support to them. I know I am sounding vague here. I truly do not know quite how this will go.
What I do know is this: We are a generous congregation. I believe our generosity will be more effective when its extends beyond indirect giving to direct involvement in a needy situation. We cannot solve the systemic problems of our community but we can make a monumental impact in the lives of our own congregants! The concept of family lends itself to this type of ministry. I know that this can make our whole congregation stronger. It will minister to the giver as much, maybe more, than the receiver.
This is something I have prayed about for some time. The success of such an endeavor lies solely in the hands of God. Prayer must be a large part of this ministry. We can learn as we go. What do you think? Would you be interested in being involved? What questions/reservations do you have?
Happy 8th day of Christmas or New Years (which ever you choose)!
Saturday, December 31, 2005
In need of genuine help!
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3 comments:
I think it would be so cool to start doing things for people like the youth group did a while back. They went to someone's house and fixed it up by doing all kinds of things that needed to be done in order for the homeowner's to be able to live better. I believe fully in the idea of "giving a glass of water to the thirsty" before telling them about how much God loves them. They need to be shown....before they're told. If I was hungry, all I would care about is food and getting some. I wouldn't want to hear someone telling me how much God loves and cares for me while I sit there starving. I don't think I would get the point very well...haha! I think we need to first meet the physical needs of the people in order to reach them spiritually.
Going back to the youth group project, I think it would be really cool to continue to do something like that in our area. Everyone loves to watch the t.v. shows that are popular right now where a team of people show up at your house and remodel your home, clean it up, etc. The people are touched who live there, the workers are touched, and the viewing audience sits in their living rooms crying and feeling refreshed by watching the gratitude expressed by the receiving homeowner. As I personally watch those shows, I always sit there thinking "Why aren't Christians doing that?" and "Wouldn't it be great if these people were also provided with the gospel (in word form) while they were feeling thankful?"
There are many things that can be done to touch and soften a person's heart. It's at that point that people are most accepting to what God has done for them and alot more willing to do something for Him in return----like possibly give Him their life!
I think your ministry is great and I would like to be involved as much as possible.
Thanks, Jason & God!
Mentoring is a big part of what I have in mind. I would love for anyone who is interested to be involved. There will be no pressure for anyone to commit to anything. Jennifer, your reference to home-building is great. That would be something we would need to grow into over time with the accumulation of resources.
I think of this like starting a fire. We must begin with smaller, easier tasks/services, then as momentum builds we can take on greater challenges. I'm excited about the idea of getting several people together who share a faith in what God can do through His people. I think we can experience a spiritual synergism that will carry us along.
Excellent point! I believe a ministry like what we are discussing could be very powerful.
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