Hands-on Giving

Recently, I was interviewed about the economy’s effect on charitable giving. During the discussion, it occurred to me that while many people are unable to give money, I still see them giving.   Time, abilities, skills, possessions. Though they can no longer give financially, they are helping in other, more personal ways.

That’s not a bad thing. While many organizations rely on generous financial donations, the personal connection inherent in an act of kindness is an added blessing for the giver and the recipient.

I see people helping neighbors, cooking meals, fixing autos . . . all with no recognition because they are done outside of “organized” charity. They are meeting needs in a hundred ways that only they can. They are “touching” the needy.

Jesus did that. He touched the untouchable. He walked with the outcasts. He was where the needy were. Personal contact with the helpless was the hallmark of His ministry. More importantly, it was the reason for His presence on this planet.

Just because we can’t give the large donations we’d love to, doesn’t mean we can’t give. Give what you can. More importantly DO what you can. Go to where the need is and meet it.

That’s what Jesus did. How can I do less?