"And whatever you do [no matter what it is] in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus." Taken from Colossians 3:17, these words cover all of our actions, and also especially enlighten and encourage us in the way to reach out to others in need - in submission to Jesus Christ.
For several years it has been noticeable the number of businesses proclaiming how they will donate a percentage of their profits to what they consider "good causes". In many cases what the recipient organization carrying out the work usually lacks, is not addressing what created the need - a yet to be experienced personal relationship with the Father and His Son Jesus Christ.
There is a searching for solutions, with over 1.6 million charitable organizations in the U.S. alone... and we are directed to give - "Don't forget to do good and to share with those in need. These are the sacrifices that please God." (Hebrews 13:16). However, in almost any problem that exists, there is a "Jesus sized" hole that only He can fill. That is why it is essential to give to the work of those carrying out their efforts in the name of Jesus.
Those organizations and ministries helping others in the name of Jesus are doing more than fulfilling a need, they are pointing the way to our God of compassion, graciousness, mercy and eternal salvation. The beautiful lyrics that sing "Glorify Thy Name in all the Earth" are lived out as we speak, help, give and contribute to others doing so... expressing that it is done in the name of Jesus.
Jesus stated He came to glorify the Father. Concluding about His own allotted time in John 17:4, He said "I have glorified You down here on earth by completing the work that You gave me to do". At the end of the chapter, Jesus said "I have revealed Your character and Your very Self."
A person can help another in need, and the recipient may feel love from doing so. But when it's been expressed that the origin of it came from the One described by John... "God is love", it has the capacity to reshape that person's view of God and that they are loved by Him as well as the giver.
Beyond your tithes and considering your giving of offerings or volunteering, I encourage you to side with those organizations pointing the way to the Father. Online resources are available to find those that do so - guidestar.org contains nearly all organizations and can be filtered to those that are Christian-based. Ministry Voice underwent a rigorous search for the best Christian Non-Profits, found at www.ministryvoice.com/most-trusted-nonprofits/.
"In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven." Matthew 5:16
God Bless you and may He show Himself greatly to you,
Paul
