GOD'S WELFARE? PART III

GOD'S WELFARE? PART III

WHO SHOULD I GIVE TO?

Yesterday we set up the ultimate Biblical Standard for helping the poor which was twofold:

1. Presence- Feeding and healing the physical needs of the poor

2. Preaching- Feeding and healing the spiritual needs of the poor.

We discussed how if the two aren't together than we really have an incomplete vision of Christian generosity. There is no fight between the two, but rather one should always serve the other.

What relief organizations have tried to find the balance here? Below I'll list 5 organizations that I believe are pretty close to the mark:

1. Lutheran Brethren International Mission- This is our denomination's world mission wing and it really does do great work. The gospel is preached, and people are fed.

2. Living Water International- This group focuses on providing clean water for extremely impoverished areas that have no access to such a necessity. And they do all this "in the name of Jesus."

3. Operation Christmas Child- As a Church we've contributed to this organization for many years. The concept is simple: We give a present for Christmas time to the poor in another country. The organization preaches the gospel to the recipients.

4. World Vision- This organization really has had staying power; their reach has spread far and wide. There has been some question as of late about their balance when it comes to the preaching part, but as far as I know they still do send people with the hope of converting locals to Jesus.

5. First Lutheran Food Pantry- Every 2nd and 4th FRIDAY (from 3-5) and SATURDAY (from 7:30-11) of the month, our host Church is literally feeding hundreds of people in the central Fontana area. Support this ministry with your money and time!

There are a number of other great organizations that deserve mention, but space does not permit. At least here you have a starting point.

Isaiah 58:6-8-

6 “Is not this the fast that I choose to loose the bonds of wickedness, to undo the straps of the yoke,
to let the oppressed go free, and to break every yoke? 7 Is it not to share your bread with the hungry and bring the homeless poor into your house; when you see the naked, to cover him, and not to hide yourself from your own flesh? 8 Then shall your light break forth like the dawn, and your healing shall spring up speedily;
your righteousness shall go before you; the glory of the Lord shall be your rear guard.

Soli Deo Gloria,

Pastor Erick

RECEIVING FROM CHRIST....GROWING IN CHRIST....GOING WITH CHRIST....