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This week, I want to focus on giving. To be up front, tomorrow we kick off our year-end donation drive. Perhaps that makes this seem self-serving, but that’s not my intention. Yes, I hope some of you will support us. But more importantly, I hope all of you will support something together.
Lori and I are all about giving to those who are less fortunate. We’ve taken folks in off the streets. We’ve volunteered for various good causes. For several years we were on the board of directors for a shelter that cared for women and children. We started a food drive at our church for the local food bank a decade ago, and now I’m on the board of directors for that food bank. Every Tuesday when I go to the YMCA, I take canned goods for their mini food pantry. We have also supported various non-profit ministries and missionaries over the years.
I share all of this not to brag, but to show that we’re living what I’m going to encourage you to do. And when I say you, I mean you and your spouse. Giving as a couple is a powerful thing that draws you together. I find that giving to others changes me. It changes my focus, and it usually makes me see how blessed I am. Doing that with my wife is even better, as we feel those things together.
Honestly, I don’t care where you give, as long as you support good causes. I do think you do well to include some of those Jesus called “the least of these”. If you want a suggestion, find a food bank. I can tell you from experience, most food banks do pretty well on food. What they really need is operating cash; rent, utilities, truck repairs, and staff salaries require cash. And a recurring donation they can count on is huge — even if the amount is small.
Another option is to provide directly for a family you know is struggling. That can mean taking them groceries or anonymously sending then gift cards from a grocery store. It might also be providing Christmas presents for children who would otherwise have few or no gifts. This kind of giving is a great way to teach your kids about giving.
~ This is Paul, and I think giving as a couple is Doing Marriage Well.
Widget has met the snow.
And she likes it!
Image Credit: © Paul H Byerly created with ideogram.ai & Paul Byerly
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