Fundraising is an incredibly humbling thing.
It takes humility to be able to ask for help and money, especially in Western culture where materialism is worshipped, money used as a status, and we pride ourselves on independence. To be in need is seen as weak or a problem.
Pushing all of that aside and taking the first step to simply just ASK, I find myself going towards those with lots of money, or in a financially stable situation who would be more likely to give. I don’t want to ask those who are themselves in need in this area, for how could I take away from the little they already have?
But this is where God’s ways and thoughts are not my thoughts.
Though I am incredibly blessed and thankful for large donations from someone who has an abundance, I now understand the heart of Jesus toward the woman who have the two mites.
I am moved to tears by my friend who keeps giving and being generous in small amounts. It began with $10, double the price I was asking for a snowman ornament I made. Then he gives me money back I tried to give him for supplies for a party, another $20. And he was one of the first people to put money in my account, another $20. The fact is, my friend currently doesn’t have a job. Money is tight. Yet when he does pick up a little work, he uses it to bless me, not keep for himself. His donation is a SACRIFICE. And a sacrifice ascribes value. He believes in me and the calling God has placed on my life. He wants to invest in the work of the kingdom, however he can.
His text to me:
“With the little I have, the Lord’s teaching me to give. And help others.”
This is the anti-venom for pride and independence that I’ve been bit and had poisoned my soul. Though I am strong some days and think I can do this all on my own, the truth is I can’t. God calls us His body with many parts. We aren’t all fully equipped on our own. I the feet, need the hands, which needs the eye which needs the mouth. The muscle needs the bone for support.
So I praise God for my dear friend, who is exuding the very presence and character of Christ. He is partnering with me, to mold and prepare me for the kingdom. He has been used to teach me this invaluable principle and truth:
Generosity is a heart posture, not an amount.
