Ok, here’s the deal. As Titus 2 and on my own I’ve been sharing the concept of “Kingdom Economy”, i.e., the fact that God’s family, the Body of Christ, the Church, our church, your church are all part of Christ’s Kingdom-wide network through which the LORD meets needs of His children. What I have that is more than my family needs can be made available to others within our Kingdom economy… I’ve supported a broad range of ministry non-profits through over 2 decades. Like in Acts 2: 42-47…..
“And they continued stedfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers.
And fear (reverence, obefience, and awe)came upon every soul: and many wonders and signs were done by the apostles.
AND ALL THAT BELIEVED WERE TOGETHER AND HAD ALL THINGS IN COMMOM,
And sold their possessions and goods, and parted them to all men, as every man had need.
And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart,
Praising God, and having favour with all the people.AND THE LORD ADDED TO THE CHURCH DAILY SUCH AS SHOULD BE SAVED!
This is not “prosperity gospel.” This is practicing generosity and living into the reality that all good gifts come from the Father and we are stewards of those gifts in His name and for His purpose. This IS CHRIST’S BODY AT WORK IN THE WORLD. Last week a women’s group at a Methodist Church brought their “extras” to their gathering. Everyone was invited to take anything they could use. What wasn’t taken was delivered to several area ministry thrift stores that support area programs for women and families to sell for ministry support.
I tiptoed into a new form of the Kingdom economy’s “Pass Over Club,” as a dear deceased friend called it! It was Ms. Bernie Shotts, a volunteer with Guardian Ad Litem and with my Titus 2 Ministry to women who introduced me to this sharing practice.
I had taken a number of items to a local thrift store after my move, then had some items I decided to put on a local “Free” Marketplace page. 2 heating pads, a small lamp, a box of office supplies, a colorful night light…… all now claimed by folks I trust will have found it worth the time it took to come pick them up. Meeting needs directly is a lot more satisfying than just sending a box to the thrift store.
“Love is materially investing in your neighbor.”
(From “For The Public Good,” compilation of essays from Albritton Foundation’s 2024 cohort of Fellows.). CBB 3/6/25
| Whatever technology you’re using, remember to use every resource at your disposal to honor God and love others. |
| “A generous person will be enriched, and the one who gives a drink of water will receive water. People will curse anyone who hoards grain, but a blessing will come to the one who sells it.” Proverbs 11:25-26 |