Help a Ministry

I recently read a message about a gospel ministry.  It needs money.  This organization is in my community. I know it well. You may know of financially strapped ministry organizations in your community, too.

The organization I read about is a residential discipleship ministry that helps people get a fresh start.  Those it serves are alcoholic, drug addicted, unable to find or hold a job, or homeless.  Some are young - still teenagers.  Recently, a woman living there gave birth.  I met a seventy-year-old man who was going through the program.  Some residents make this place their home.  A young woman told me, “I’ve never been loved like I am here.”

The leaders tell about Jesus, provide living space, food and clothing.  They require residents to work and support the organization.  Leaders teach Bible study, prayer, and other spiritual disciplines.  Attendance is mandatory.

I like what this ministry does. It offers no-nonsense, heavy-duty, industrial-strength training.  (My life could stand some additional discipline and I might benefit from living there.)

This fine ministry is short of money.  Much of their support comes from the work of the residents.  There is not much work in the winter.  Yard work will be available in a couple of months.  Until then, it will hard to make ends meet.

A group that donates deer to the ministry each Fall, couldn’t do so this year.  So, there’s no meat in the freezer.  Building rent is due.  Electricity, gas, and water bills are on hand to pay.  Vehicles need repair.

I went to see a movie recently, which means I have some extra cash.  The movie was fun and I needed some time off.  But, I’m going to do something for this ministry.  The men and women who live there have basic needs.  They are more important than my fun, and giving to them will be satisfying, too.

I’m not going to tell you the name of this organization, nor where it is located.  It’s a real place with real needs.  However, there is a Christian organization near you that needs help.  If you can’t find one, read this paper, the Word and Way, your local newspaper, or ask your pastor or other Christian leader for a suggestion. They may suggest a Christian ministry that needs your gift.

I’ve told you that I’m going to give to the organization in my community.  Even though I’ve told you that I am going to make a gift, I should also tell you that I’m going to give it in a quiet, private way. This good ministry doesn’t need to know who I am, though they may need what I can give.

So, can you give something?