their priorities set, helping them overcome their addictions and their
hang-ups in life, isn't throwing money at the problem but instead, it
is investing time and energy into people.
Our modern day society, thinks the quick fix, is to throw enough
money at a problem, and those we are trying to help will figure out how
to best use that money. Throwing money at a people problem, without
spending time and energy to help them address their hurts, hang-ups
and addictions, is like flushing money down a toilet. The money will
be gone, and people are left in the same situation they started in, alone
and helpless.
The Pharisees and the Sadducees of Jesus time, would put on a big
show of giving money to the poor and needy, so that man would praise
them for their generosity and Jesus ridiculed them with a little story, we
call, The Good Samaritan. You could throw all the money you want
at a dying man in the streets and he will still die or you can pick him up
and carry him to a treatment facility and he will get well and hopefully
help others.
Investing in others takes time and energy, but the rewards are far
greater than silver and gold. Teachers, get this thrill every time they see
a child catch onto an idea or concept in school. For those of us that
invest our time and energy helping others, the reward is the same. We
get the thrill of watching lives change, right before our eyes.
To see an addict, with clear eyes, with track marks starting to heal
and a genuine smile on their face. To take an old air conditioning unit
and installing it in someones home, so they can survive 100 degree
days with 100% humidity. To help people get food and clothing, so
they can survive one more week.
As a Christian, get involved with local help organizations, charities,
homeless shelters. Get your hands involved in helping others learn to
help themselves. I have never met any of these groups and organizations
that don't need volunteers to help in the community.
Jesus ministry was never about money, He trusted God to supply His
and His Disciples needs. Jesus ministry was in the streets, helping others,
teaching others, healing others.
He call on us, His people, to do the same. Jesus calls on us to go to
the streets, in our communities, in our cities, in our countries and help
others, teach others about a different way to live, and to help others
find the healing that only Jesus Christ can provide in their lives.
People need to see Jesus, every time they look at us!
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