You know, greedy and grumpy isn't an attractive trait for anyone. Dr. David Wilson pastors Southcrest Baptist Church in Lubbock, Texas. One of his friends manages a restaurant that adjoins his church parking lot. One afternoon, the manager told David that he has a hard time getting waitresses to work the Sunday afternoon shift. "Why" Dr. Wilson asked. "Because the church people come into the restaurant, sit in groups and tip very little."

A new study published in the Canadian Journal of Zoology says the forgetful habits of gray squirrels may actually be good for forests. Rob Swihart, a researcher from Purdue University says he discovered a helpful pattern in the hoarding patterns of the gray squirrel.

Though many suburban gardeners find the gray squirrel a pest because they constantly take food from backyard feeders, the squirrels bury walnuts, acorns, and other nuts across the landscape in a pattern known as "scatter hoarding." Some of the nuts are forgotten, and eventually germinate, sprouting into black walnut, oak, and hickory trees to repopulate hardwood forests.

The red squirrel, which moved into the American Midwest from higher altitudes over the past century, usually stores nuts in above ground caches. When these seeds are forgotten, they often dry out, or are eaten by other animals.

Swihart's study discovered that seven times as many walnuts gathered by gray squirrels germinated compared with walnuts hoarded by the red squirrel.

—Reuters, Gray Squirrels' Faulty Memories Help Forests, November 26, 2003. Illustration by Jim L. Wilson and Jim Sandell.

Luke 6:38 NASB “Give, and it will be given to you; good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, they will pour into your lap. For by your standard of measure it will be measured to you in return.”

As a group, lawyers are most often known for their greed than their generosity, but that perception may be changing.

Congress set up a fund to pay the victims' families of the events of 9-11 so they wouldn't have to go through the delay or the costs of a lawsuit. Trial lawyers are volunteering their time to help the victims' families recover their money. Leo V. Boyle, president of the Association of Trial Lawyers of America said, "If a fireman can run into a building and die trying to save people he doesn't even know, the least we can do is represent his children for free."

Psalm 112:9 NLT "They give generously to those in need. Their good deeds will never be forgotten. They will have influence and honor."

Eddie Ogan will never forget the Easter of 1946. Her little sister Ocy was 12, her older sister Darlene was 16 and she was right in the middle at 14. Times were tough; her dad died five years earlier and the family struggled just to make ends meet.

A month before Easter her pastor asked the church to give to a special Easter offering to help a poor family. He asked everyone to give sacrificially.

When they got home, the family talked about what they could do. They came to a decision, they would buy 50 pounds of potatoes and live on them for a month, allowing them to give $20 of their grocery money for the offering. Remember, this was 1946, $20.00 went a little further than it does today. They also decided to keep their electric lights turned out as much as possible and not listen to the radio to save money on the electric bill so they could pass the savings on to the "poor family" that needed it. The kids got jobs cleaning yards and babysitting and they started a potholder business. They bought cotton loops for 15 cents and sold the three potholders they made with them for $1. By the end of the month, they'd made $20 on potholders. "That month was the best of our lives." Eddie said.

Every day they counted the money to see how much they'd saved. At night they'd sit in the dark and talk about how the poor family was going to enjoy having the money the church would give them. The church had about 80 people, so they figured that whatever amount of money they had to give, the offering would surely be about 20 times that much. After all, every Sunday their pastor reminded everyone to save for the sacrificial offering.

The day before Easter, Eddie and her little sister Ocy walked to the grocery store and asked the manager to give them three crisp $20 bills and one $10 bill for all their change. They ran all the way home to show their Mom and Darlene. They had never had so much money.

That night they were so excited they could hardly sleep. They didn't care that they wouldn't have new clothes for Easter; they had $70 for the sacrificial offering, and that was all that mattered.

On Sunday morning, it was raining. Darlene's feet got wet when the cardboard in her shoes came apart. They didn't own an umbrella, and the church was over a mile from their home, but it didn't seem to matter how wet they got. Nothing was going to rob this family of the joy of giving. They could hardly wait to get to church!

They arrived, drenched, but they sat in church proudly. Nothing was going to rob this family of the joy of giving. They overheard some teenagers in the back talking about the Smith girls having on old dresses. But the girls didn't care. Nothing was going to rob this family of the joy of giving.

When the sacrificial offering was taken, the family was sitting on the second row from the front. The Mom put in the $10 bill, and each of the kids put in a $20.

As they walked home after church, they sang all the way. At lunch Mom had a surprise for the kids, she had bought a dozen eggs, and served hard boiled Easter eggs with their fried potatoes! It was a great day!

Late that afternoon the pastor drove up in his car. Mrs. Smith went to greet him, when she returned, she came back with an envelope in her hand it contained three crisp $20 bills, one $10 and seventeen 1 dollars.

She put the money back in the envelope. They didn't talk. Instead, they just sat and stared at the floor. "We had gone from feeling like millionaires to feeling like poor white trash," Eddie said. "We kids had such a happy life that we felt sorry for anyone who didn't have our Mom and Dad for parents and a house full of brothers and sisters and other kids visiting constantly. We thought it was fun to share silverware and see whether we got the spoon or the fork that night. We had two knives that we passed around to whomever needed them." She continued.

Eddie knew they didn't have a lot of things that other people had, but he never thought they were poor. Not until Easter day 1946, that is. The minister had brought them the money for the poor family, so they must be poor.

The kids looked at their clothes and worn out shoes and started to feel ashamed. They sat in silence for a long time. When it got dark, they went to bed, in silence. All that week, the girls went to school and came home, and didn't talk much. Finally on Saturday, Mrs. Smith asked them what we wanted to do with the money. They didn't know. They didn't care.

The next Sunday, the girls didn't want to go to church, but Mrs. Smith said they had to.

Though it was a beautiful, sunny day, they didn't talk on the way. Mrs. Smith started to sing, but no one joined in and she only sang one verse.

At church, they had a missionary speaker. He talked about how churches in Africa made buildings out of sun dried bricks, but they needed money to buy roofs. He said $100 would put a roof on a church. The minister said, "Can't we all sacrifice to help these poor people?"

They looked at each other and smiled for the first time in a week. Their Mom reached into her purse and pulled out the envelope. She passed it to Darlene. Darlene gave it to Eddie, and Eddie handed it to Ocy. Ocy put it in the offering.

When the offering was counted, the minister announced that it was a little over $100. The missionary was excited. He hadn't expected such a large offering from our small church. He said, "You must have some rich people in this church."

Suddenly it struck the Smith girls. They had given $87 of that "little over $100." They were the rich family in the church! Hadn't the missionary just said so? They learned a valuable lesson that day. A person isn't poor if they trust enough to give.

—Chicken Soup for the Golden Soul, http://www.chickensoup.com/stories/golden/rich.html Illustration by Jim L. Wilson

For more information on Chicken Soup for the Golden Soul, go to http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/1558747338/fm082-20

Matthew 6:3 NASB "But when you give alms, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing"

I don't know how many times I've heard it-people often say, if I made more money then I'd be able to give more to the church. Unfortunately, it doesn't work that way. In 2000, people with an income over $100,000.00 gave 2.2% of their income to charity, while people whose income was under $10,000.00 gave 5.3%.

Generosity has more to do with the size of a person's heart than the size of their bank account.

2 Cor. 9:7 KJV "Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver."

In 1995, a brother, and his sister, decided to revive the spirit of Christmas' past and exchange gifts. She was doing well financially, he wasn't. She was a prominent accountant at a large corporation, and he, though older than his sister was still establishing himself in his career.

On Christmas Day, he was simultaneously excited and heart broken when he opened her present—1996 season tickets to all the San Diego Chargers home games. He was excited because it was a great gift and he was an avid sports fan. He was heart broken because he knew what was in the box she was about to unwrap—two pot holders.

He watched the disappointment on her face when she searched under the pot holders to see if she missed something—she hadn't, the pot holders were it.

Later, he caught a private moment with his sister and confessed his embarrassment. She handled it graciously. "Considering your income, we gave comparable gifts," she said, "besides, the way the Chargers have been playing lately, its not so great a gift anyway." They laughed, but he wanted to make it up to her.

He spent his spare time over the next few weeks going through boxes in his parent's attic. On her birthday in mid-January, he presented a scrap book to her as a birthday present. Inside were pictures of them as children, growing up together. The cover bore the title, "The greatest Christmas Present I Ever Received."

Inside the cover, he attached a note. It said that though the football tickets were great presents, the greatest Christmas present he ever received was his little sister, who he loves very much—Happy Birthday!

The pot holders, we'll have to agree was a pretty lame gift. But the photo album—priceless! It was a gift of time.

Native America author, Crying Wind, says one of the things she likes about her husband Don, is that he is the eternal optimist. Don has never wasted a penny n his life, but he has thrown away thousands of pennies in an attempt to bring a smile to someone’s face.

Crying Wind writes that Don often says, "A penny saved is a penny wasted. But find a penny and pick it up and all day long you'll have good luck." Don says the poorest boy in town has one thing in common with the richest man in town." They'll both bend over to pick up a lucky penny and they'll both smile. The only thing you can buy with a penny is a smile."

Don's goal in life is to make sure there are enough lucky pennies to go around. Every week, Don throws away about a hundred pennies. He leaves them in places like school playgrounds, parks, and sidewalks. When asked about how many pennies he had planted Don answered, "Oh, I guess about fifty thousand or more. Just think, if only half of them were found, I've made twenty-five thousand people smile and feel lucky for a minute. That's not such a small thing."

—When the Stars Danced, Crying Wind, pg. 23, 2001, A Sequoyah Edition, Indian Life Books, 2001. Illustration by Jim L. Wilson and Jim Sandell.

Proverbs 11:25 NIV “A generous man will prosper; he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed.”

For more information on When the Stars Danced, go to http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0920379192/fm082-20

Queen Latifah said, “I don’t care how much money you have, free stuff is always a good thing.”

But is there ever a point where enough is enough? Isn’t there a point where “stuff” clutter’s our lives to where it owns us instead of us owning it? What should our response be when we have more than enough? Building bigger places to store it? Or give some of it away?

Luke 12:16-21 NASB “And He told them a parable, saying, ‘The land of a certain rich man was very productive. [17] ‘And he began reasoning to himself, saying, 'What shall I do, since I have no place to store my crops?' [18] ‘And he said, 'This is what I will do: I will tear down my barns and build larger ones, and there I will store all my grain and my goods. [19] And I will say to my soul, ‘Soul, you have many goods laid up for many years to come; take your ease, eat, drink and be merry.’ ' [20] ‘But God said to him, 'You fool! This very night your soul is required of you; and now who will own what you have prepared?' [21] ‘So is the man who lays up treasure for himself, and is not rich toward God.’”

Some people are just naturally generous. Take Paul Lessard of High Point North Carolina for example. When he was awarded $2500.00 from the Carnegie Institute for rescuing a 62-year-old woman from her car that was swept into a deep creek during “a rainy maelstrom in April 1993,” he used the money to begin “the Lighthouse Project,” which brings inspirational speakers to schools in his area.

—US News & World Report, August 20/27, 2001, p. 72. Illustration by Jim L. Wilson

Hebrews 13:16 NLT “Don't forget to do good and to share what you have with those in need, for such sacrifices are very pleasing to God.”

—US News & World Report, August 20/27, 2001, p. 72. Illustration by Jim L. Wilson

Hebrews 13:16 NLT “Don't forget to do good and to share what you have with those in need, for such sacrifices are very pleasing to God.”

When Ted Turner announced his pledge to give up to one billion dollars to charity, he took a few swipes at other wealthy people. He called Bill Gates and other of the really rich "skinflints" because they failed to give as much as he did.

Turner's attitude is in stark contrast to Biblical admonition not to let the left hand know what the right hand is doing. When Jesus watched the donations at the temple, he wasn't impressed with what the rich gave, but a poor widow did catch his attention.

Mark 12:41-43 NASB "And He sat down opposite the treasury, and began observing how the multitude were putting money into the treasury; and many rich people were putting in large sums. [42] And a poor widow came and put in two small copper coins, which amount to a cent. [43] And calling His disciples to Him, He said to them, 'Truly I say to you, this poor widow put in more than all the contributors to the treasury;'"

Inmates in Canada have given c$4200.00 toward the Relief effort for those who suffered great loss in the South Asia Tsunami. Though the amount can't compare with the multi-million dollar donations from some large corporations it does represent a great sacrifice when you take into account that prisoners are only able to earn c$6.90 a day. Diane Russon, a spokeswoman for Correctional Services of Canada said, "Regardless of the amount, the idea that they're actually caring about (someone) other than themselves, and making the effort and the donation, is pretty remarkable,"

—http://story.news.yahoo.com/news?tmpl=story&cid=583&e=5&u=/nm/20050113/od_nm/quake_canada_prisoners_dc Illustration by Jim L. Wilson

Generosity isn't always measured in the amount of the gift as much as it is by the size of the sacrifice.

Luke 21:2-4 (KJV) And he saw also a certain poor widow casting in thither two mites. [3] And he said, Of a truth I say unto you, that this poor widow hath cast in more than they all: [4] For all these have of their abundance cast in unto the offerings of God: but she of her penury hath cast in all the living that she had.

Seven years ago, the Good Shepherd Hispanic Baptist Church in Metairie, Louisiana showed compassion to fellow believers in Honduras who were suffering after a hit from Hurricane Mitch. The people at Good Shepherd sent twelve containers of food and clothing to an evangelical church and a Baptist church in Honduras in 1998 to meet the needs left by the storm. When Hurricane Katrina hit Good Shepherd hard this summer, they were surprised when both Honduran churches returned the favor by helping them.

Though the people of the Honduran Baptist Church were poor people who worked in the local marketplace, they sent their pastor a love offering of $1,000 to help their American friends. The other church from Honduras sent their pastor and five workmen along with a gift of $17,000 to help Good Shepherd. The men helped in cleanup efforts, and cooked a chicken dinner for a celebration service attended by more than 450 people.

The Pastor of Good Shepherd Church, Gonzalo Rodriguez said Good Shepherd never expected the Honduran churches would remember what they did seven years ago and decide to come and help. He said, "What makes a difference is that Honduras is what we consider a country of the third world. They are very poor people and we never expected they would come here to help us."

Rodriguez is thankful for the gifts and admits Good Shepherd will struggle for some time because most of their congregation was scattered by the storm and have not returned. He hopes the church can reach out to other Hispanics in the community during this opportune time. He added, "We need to organize an evangelistic team because there are lots of needs among all the people without a place to stay, and we need the wisdom to see how we can help these people."

—www.bpnews.net (Baptist Press), Hondurans give $18,000 to Hispanic church hit by Katrina, October 21, 2005. Illustration by Jim L. Wilson

2 Corinthians 1:4 (NJB) "he supports us in every hardship, so that we are able to come to the support of others, in every hardship of theirs because of the encouragement that we ourselves receive from God."

For 26 years, a Secret Santa roamed the streets of America quietly giving people money. The gifts started with $5 and $10 bills, but in recent years the secret gifts grew to $100 bills, sometimes two and three at a time, given out in parking lots, diners, and thrift stores. The mysterious person decided to make himself known after learning that he has cancer. 58 year-old Larry Stewart, a business man from the Kansa City area made millions in cable television and long-distance telephone service, and gave away more than 1.3 million dollars since the 1970s.

Stewart started his holiday giving in 1979. He had just been fired and was nursing his wounds at a drive-in restaurant. As he watched the car-hop work he thought, "It was cold and this car hop didn't have on a very big jacket, and I thought to myself, 'I think I got it bad. She's out there in this cold making nickels and dimes.'" Stewart gave her $20 and told her to keep the change. He says, "And suddenly, I saw her lips begin to tremble and tears begin to flow down her cheeks. She said, 'Sir you have no idea what this means to me.'" Stewart went to the bank and took out $200 dollars then drove around looking for people who could use a lift. He called his act a "Christmas present to himself."

He continued the tradition for years, until he was diagnosed with cancer earlier this year. His insurance company won't cover the cost of the treatments, which has left Stewart concerned about his finances and his family. This year Secret Santas Stewart has trained will pass out $165,000. Stewart says his mission will now shift to speaking to community groups to inspire others to donate their time and money. Stewart says, "That's what we're here for to help other people out."

—http://www.cnn.com/2006/US/11/18/secret.santa.ap/index.html?section=cnn_latest. Illustration by Jim L. Wilson and Jim Sandell.

2 Corinthians 9:9-12 (HCSB) "As it is written: He has scattered; He has given to the poor; His righteousness endures forever. [10] Now the One who provides seed for the sower and bread for food will provide and multiply your seed and increase the harvest of your righteousness, [11] as you are enriched in every way for all generosity, which produces thanksgiving to God through us. [12] For the ministry of this service is not only supplying the needs of the saints, but is also overflowing in many acts of thanksgiving to God."

NFL running back Warrick Dunn has established a holiday tradition that brings hope and homes to those in need. In 1997, Dunn began his Homes from the Holidays program to honor his mother, Betty Smothers, a law officer who was killed in the line of duty. Each year, through The Warrick Dunn Foundation, the NFL standout makes the down payment on a new house, and furnishes the home for a single mom.

Dunn recently opened the doors of a brand new house for Yolanda Blount of St. Petersburg, Florida. Blount and her four boys ranging from 7 to 15 years of age all found something they liked in their new home ranging from bunk beds to the new computer. Blount called the experience a dream come true. Watching Blount's response, Dunn said, "Her reaction says it all. Someone that applied before and got turned down and applied again. She's successful now. This is a reward for her. "After giving away another house Dunn added," I'm always blessed to be in this position to help people. It keeps you humble."

—www.abcactionnews.com, Warrick Dunn scores big with another dream fulfilled, November 29, 2005; www.sptimes.com. A gift of home and hope, November 30, 2005. Illustration by Jim L. Wilson and Jim Sandell.

2 Corinthians 9:9-11 (NKJV) As it is written: "He has dispersed abroad, He has given to the poor; His righteousness endures forever." [10] Now may He who supplies seed to the sower, and bread for food, supply and multiply the seed you have sown and increase the fruits of your righteousness, [11] while you are enriched in everything for all liberality, which causes thanksgiving through us to God.

Residents of a Denver homeless shelter have no idea who the middle-aged bearded man was who visited them on Christmas Eve.They were surprised when the man parked his sport utility vehicle in front of the shelter and walked into the building with a thick roll of $100 dollar bills. The man gave each of the 300 residents of the shelter one of the bills.Before he left that evening, the bearded stranger had given away more than $35,000.

The man told the crowd that gathered how he had once been homeless and that he knew what it was like to be in need.He declined to identify himself saying only that he lived in the Denver area, and had made another distribution at a shelter in Las Vegas.

The biggest single donation the stranger made was to a family of six to help them find housing. Louis Quezada, Tessa Wittner, and their four children had been living with Quezada's parents but were thrown out a few days before Christmas after an argument.

Quezada said, "He asked if he gave us the money, would we get a house with it. We said yes."

Shelter resident William Chengelis said, "It was like seeing Santa Claus and God all at once. You hear about stuff like that but you don't think you'll be there when it happens."

—Associated Press, Anonymous man doles out $35,000 in cash to Denver shelter residents, December 25, 2004. Illustration by Jim L. Wilson and Jim Sandell.

Matthew 6:3-4 (NASB)"But when you give alms, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing [4] that your alms may be in secret; and your Father who sees in secret will repay you."

A prosperous Minnesota businessman surprised the Salvation Army by dropping a check for $14,485 into a red kettle outside a Minneapolis bookstore.When the Salvation Army sought out the man for an explanation, they discovered an interesting story.

The man who declined to be identified released a written statement through the organization. The man said he would receive a little over $20,000 in Social Security payments in 2004 and didn't need the money because he already had enough income. The check represented the total of his Social Security benefits for the year minus the amount of Social Security taxes he paid in 2004.

The anonymous donor said he considered sending the checks back to the government but came up a better idea.He noted that his donation was tax deductible, and added, "Undoubtedly, the Salvation Army will make more productive use of the money than would be the case if I returned it to the government."

—Associated Press, Man drops $14485 in Salvation Army Kettle, December 16, 2004. Illustration by Jim L. Wilson and Jim Sandell.

Proverbs 22:9 (NASB) "He who is generous will be blessed, For he gives some of his food to the poor."

Ten-year-old Lydia Turiano didn't want a doll, board games, or any other toy for her birthday. She told her parents she only wanted money for her birthday, but not for selfish reasons. Lydia participated in a program at her school and made get well cards and posters for other kids in need or who are ill. In the program, she learned about 4th grader Brian Santos who has bone cancer. Though she had never met him, Lydia told her parents, she wanted to invite Brian to her party, and have friends bring him donations to help cover the expenses of his cancer treatment.

32 kids showed up for the party and brought in $628 for Brian. Though a high fever kept Brian away from the party, he met Lydia later and gave her a bouquet of flowers to thank her. Brian's mom Shari said, "We are all blown away by this wonderful little girl."

When asked about her idea, Lydia said, "It feels awesome to be able to help. I knew we could work together and do something really great."

—http://www.democratandchronicle.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=2007701080316. Illustration by Jim L. Wilson and Jim Sandell.

Philippians 2:3-4 (CEV) "Don't be jealous or proud, but be humble and consider others more important than yourselves. [4] Care about them as much as you care about yourselves."

According to the IRS, in 2003, people with and average income of $12,685 had $1,469 in charitable contributions (11.6%) as compared to those with an income of $54,503 who claimed $2,094 in charitable contributions (4%). Those with an average income of $288,335 gave $7,182 (2.5%).

Commenting on these statistics, Scott Burns wrote, "If those figures look a little funny, it's probably because you don't expect people living near the poverty line to be able to give away over 10 percent of their income while people at the other end of the scale give only 2.5 percent. But if you go through the entire income table, as I did, that is exactly what you will find. Giving and income have an inverse relationship."

—http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/business/3546335.html Illustration by Jim L. Wilson

2 Corinthians 8:2 (MontgomeryNT) "For although in heavy trial of affliction, their overbrimming happiness, even in spite of their deep poverty, abounded to the opulence of their unselfishness."

In 2005, Time Magazine named Melinda Gates, Bono and Bill Gates as their persons of the year. According to the Time, they are Good Samaritans "on a global mission to end poverty, disease—and indifference."

—http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,1142278,00.html Illustration by Jim L. Wilson

Good for them. And good for Time Magazine for recognizing their generosity as something worthy of recognition. While most of us don't have the influence or wealth of this trio, we can aspire to do our part. At the least, we can cultivate a generous spirit in our hearts and avoid being tightwads.

Luke 6:38 NASB "Give, and it will be given to you. They will pour into your lap a good measure—pressed down, shaken together, and running over. For by your standard of measure it will be measured to you in return."

Earlier in the year, 2000 pounds worth of sound equipment was stolen from the children's ministry at the South Chard Christian Church in Somerset, England. After the News spread through the community, the church received a surprising donation. One day a man in shorts jogged up to the church and handed them an envelope containing 1,000 British pounds. The man said the money was to help pay for the replacement of the equipment that was stolen. Before the church could get any more information, the man jogged away.

Pastor Neil Reid said he was astonished and delighted by the man's good will and generosity. No one has seen the man since or knows who he might be. In the community, the anonymous donor has simply become known as "the man in shorts."

—http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/somerset/5259406.stm. Illustration by Jim L. Wilson and Jim Sandell.

Matthew 6:3-4 (GW) "When you give to the poor, don't let your left hand know what your right hand is doing. [4] Give your contributions privately. Your Father sees what you do in private. He will reward you."

Rick Warren, Author of The Purpose-Driven® Life sold over 20 million copies of his book in 2004. He didn't simply tithe on his income. In fact, he kept a tithe for himself and gave 90% of it away. Naming him one of the "People who Mattered in 2004," Time Magazine said "he led by example."

—http://www.time.com/time/personoftheyear/2004/people/13.html Illustration by Jim L. Wilson

In many ways success is the greatest test of all because of how easy it would become to be derailed from your purpose and seduced by the trappings of wealth. It is one thing to talk about finding a purpose, but quite another to remember your purpose while you're living. No doubt Rick is living his purpose, and because of that, he is truly a wealthy man.

Matthew 19:21 (KJV) "Jesus said unto him, If thou wilt be perfect, go and sell that thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come and follow me."

Instead of keeping the $10,000 lottery prize he won, a Michigan man decided to give the money away. Not long after he learned he had won, Jim Dancy decided others needed the money more than he did, so he gave it to a local charity. The President of the charity called Dancy’s gift an “incredible act of kindness and generosity.” he said since the economic downturn had affected many of the agencies the charity serves, the gift came at just the right time.

When asked why he gave the money away, Dancy said, “I was heavily influenced by my close friend Julie, who taught me to think of others first, and to stop and think about what life is really about. I know the needs in the community are great right now, so for me it was the right thing to do.”

--Lottery winner Gives Prize to Charity; http://news.aol.com/article/lottery-winner-charity/433871; April 17, 2009, Illustration by Jim L. Wilson and Jim Sandell.

I don’t personally support the lottery, but Mr. Dancy’s actions should make us think about how we use the resources God provides.

Philippians 2:3-4 GNB “Don't do anything from selfish ambition or from a cheap desire to boast, but be humble toward one another, always considering others better than yourselves. And look out for one another's interests, not just for your own.”

Frank Hanna is a very successful businessperson. He has learned the secret to more than financial success, but also financial contentment. He gives generously to charities including helping to found three schools in Atlanta. When asked about giving in tough times he responded that it is important “because it is part of what makes us human. It’s a manifestation of what’s best within us, which is out capacity to love and to make a sacrifice for others.”

Giving also is a part of what it means to be Christian. Those who believe in and trust in the gift of God are challenged to give beyond what makes us human, to what defines our Christian faith.

--Readers Digest, April 2009, p39-41. Illustration by Jim L. Wilson and Rodger Russell

1 Timothy 6:17-19 (NLT) Teach those who are rich in this world not to be proud and not to trust in their money, which is so unreliable. Their trust should be in God, who richly gives us all we need for our enjoyment. Tell them to use their money to do good. They should be rich in good works and generous to those in need, always being ready to share with others. By doing this they will be storing up their treasure as a good foundation for the future so that they may experience true life.

As people begin to struggle with the downturn in the economy, Cross Timbers Community Church in Argyle, Texas is attempting to help. The pastor has told the people, when the offering plate comes by, if you need money, take it from plate.

The church has given away $500,000 in just two months. They have helped single moms, widows, a local mission, and some families behind on their utility bills. The day they announced the take-from-the plate offer, they received their largest offering ever.

Pastor Toby Slough says, “In these economic times, we can’t be so into church business that we forget what our business is, and that is to help people.”

--USA Today, May 19, 2009, p. 3A. Illustration by Jim L. Wilson and Rodger Russell

Luke 6:38 (NLTse) Give, and you will receive. Your gift will return to you in full—pressed down, shaken together to make room for more, running over, and poured into your lap. The amount you give will determine the amount you get back.”

A convenience store clerk in Arkansas would not open the cash register for a robber, but gave the would-be robber money from his own wallet. Police say they were called to the convenience store where the clerk explained that a man he did not know entered the store displaying a weapon. The man told the clerk, “I hate to do this,” and then asked for $40 from the cash register. The clerk told him the money in the register was not his to give.

The robber explained that he needed the money to buy insulin. When the clerk heard this, he took $40 from his own wallet and gave it to the man. The robber accepted the money, thanked the clerk, shook his hand and left. Police say they are still searching for the robber.

--Clerk gives robber $40 from own pocket for insulin; http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20090527/ap_on_fe_st/us_odd_robbery_insulin ; May 27, 2009; Illustration by Jim L. Wilson and Jim Sandell

Matthew 5:42 (HCSB) “Give to the one who asks you, and don’t turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you.”

The current recession has led many Americans to change the way they handle their money. One church in Texas is responded to the economic conditions by changing the way they collect the weekly offering. The Cross Timbers Community Church in Argyle has been telling needy members that if they are in need, they can take money from the plate as it passes. Pastor Toby Slough says the movement started one Sunday when he told the congregation to take money from the collection plate if they needed it, even though church donations were down. Slough says that day the church received the largest offering ever.

The church has continued to give during the recent hard times. They have given money to single mothers and widows, paid utility bills for people, and donated money to help other organizations feed and clothe those in need. Slough says after he told the congregation to take money if they needed it, he gave a ride to a man who was looking for a job. The man had just used his last bus pass. The experience confirmed the church was doing the right thing. Slough added, “In that moment, I just knew this is what our church has to be about. In these economic times, we can’t be so into church business that we forget what our business is, and that is to help people.”

--Church Reverse Collection Plate, www.the33tv.com/news/kdaf-chruch-giveaway-kdaf,0,7429826.story; May 17, 2009; Illustration by Jim L. Wilson and Jim Sandell

2 Corinthians 9:8-10 (HCSB) “And God is able to make every grace overflow to you, so that in every way, always having everything you need, you may excel in every good work. 9 As it is written: He has scattered; He has given to the poor; His righteousness endures forever. 10 Now the One who provides seed for the sower and bread for food will provide and multiply your seed and increase the harvest of your righteousness,”

Leadership Network reports that the average Christian gave just over $4000.00 to charity in 2007 as compared to the national average of around $2,000 for charitable giving per household.

--http://www.pursuantgroup.com/leadnet/advance/jul09s2.htm Illustration by Jim L. Wilson

Proverbs 11:25 (NLT) “The generous prosper and are satisfied; those who refresh others will themselves be refreshed.”

A small act of kindness can have a larger impact than we think. Recently a couple in a Philadelphia area diner set off a chain reaction of generosity when they finished their meal then paid double, covering the cost of their meal and that of another table of diner at the restaurant.

Though they asked the staff not to say anything until after they had gone, the waitress told the people at the table, “Merry Christmas, that person just picked up your tab.”

The chain of generosity continued for the next five hours, with dozens of patrons getting into the spirit and paying the favor forward. The diner’s manager said not one person was concerned about the price of the next check, which averaged between $12 and $30 dollars. Linda, the manager said, “It was a surprise to all of us, the girls were even taken aback. Those who took the check also tipped the waitress. So nobody had to do anything other than pass it on and that’s what they did. They just passed it forward.”

--Mystery Couple Starts “Magical” Chain Reaction, http://www.nbcphiladelphia.com/news/local-beat/Mystery-Couple-Pay-It-Forward-79179347.html?yhp=1 ; December 15, 2009, Illustration by Jim L. Wilson and Jim Sandell

Romans 12:8 (CEV) “If we can encourage others, we should encourage them. If we can give, we should be generous. If we are leaders, we should do our best. If we are good to others, we should do it cheerfully.”

A misdialed telephone number became the basis of a miracle of God’s provision in California. Virginia Saenz could hear the desperation in the voice of a message left on her telephone at 5AM the day before Thanksgiving 2009.The caller named Lucy was calling her daughter to say that she could send money for groceries, but sending the money meant the woman would not be able to pay her mortgage payment. Saenz said she did the only thing she could think of. She called Lucy back and told her not to worry. She told Lucy to pay her mortgage, and she promised to handle the groceries. Saenz told Lucy, she had reached a wrong number and she did not have to worry anymore.

Saenz went grocery shopping Thanksgiving morning and bought food for a Thanksgiving dinner and enough food to hold Lucy’s daughter through the end of the month, when she would get paid again. Saenz said the act of giving made “the day special for me.” She added,” I helped somebody. I think it’s what anybody would have done.”

--Wrong Number Miracle, http://www.nbcsandiego.com/news/weird/Wrong-Number-Miracle-76368647.html; November 30, 2009; Illustration by Jim L. Wilson and Jim Sandell.

1 Timothy 6:17-19 (HCSB) “Instruct those who are rich in the present age not to be arrogant or to set their hope on the uncertainty of wealth, but on God, who richly provides us with all things to enjoy. (18) ?Instruct them? to do what is good, to be rich in good works, to be generous, willing to share, (19) storing up for themselves a good reserve for the age to come, so that they may take hold of life that is real.”

“A recent study showed that when people were given money to spend, those who spent it on others were happiest. Giving is literally a joy. If you want to feel better about your day, buy the guy in back of you at Starbucks a cup of coffee. Watch the look on his face. That’s a long-lasting hit of happiness for you. You’ll get your $1.85 back, I guarantee it.”

–Harvard Psychologist Daniel Gilbert in Readers Digest, February 2010. P. 17 Illustration by Jim L. Wilson and Rodger Russell

Acts 20:35 (NASB77) "In everything I showed you that by working hard in this manner you must help the weak and remember the words of the Lord Jesus, that He Himself said, 'It is more blessed to give than to receive.'"

When Forbes magazine compiled its most recent list of the world’s wealthiest people, Microsoft Co-Founder Bill Gates was no longer on top. Gates was replaced by Mexican businessman Carlos Slim. Slim did not capture the new position because his business grew dramatically; rather he became the world’s wealthiest man because Gates gave so much money away.

Over the previous year, Bill and Melinda Gates gave away $28 billion to a foundation they created to improve education in American, and health conditions around the world. Generosity didn’t diminish Gates very much. Instead of being ranked the world’s richest person, Gates moved to the second position. Warren Buffet, another billionaire who began giving his fortune this past year ranked number three.

Bill Gates is no longer the richest person in the world, http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2011/03/08/AR2011030805463.html; March 9, 2011, Illustraton by Jim L. Wilson and Jim Sandell

1 Timothy 6:17 (CEV) Warn the rich people of this world not to be proud or to trust in wealth that is easily lost. Tell them to have faith in God, who is rich and blesses us with everything we need to enjoy life.

The television program “Secret Millionaire” has introduced the world to a millionaire Dani Johnson who has an interesting story as well as wealth. Johnson’s name became a hot search topic after the first program aired. In an interview, she summarized her life into four major points. Johnson said she grew up on welfare, became pregnant at 17, was homeless by 21, and then became a millionaire by age 23. She said they she was offered a chance to appear on the program, she turned it down four times. She said in her mind giving to charities was something to be done in secret. She told a reporter she changed her mind after reading the Bible. She said she “came to the revelation that I was fighting God and that God was the one to open up the door and it was clear that he wanted this message to get out there.”

Johnson hid her identity and lived on a budget of $40 in a tough Knoxville Tennessee neighborhood for the show. She began working on her own personal gift giving with a group of 31 people during the Christmas season. After the show, Johnson put together a group of clients and challenged them to infiltrate a city, loving orphans who had been abandoned and abused. She said one of the reasons she wants to help people become successful is so they can annihilate their personal debt and then contribute to a failing society. Johnson added, “I just came back from India from an orphanage with 237 boys whose parents were martyred for Christ. We have never mobilized our clients to do it with us and so it has definitely expanded the vision that God gave me seven years ago, helping people succeed in business so that they could go and make a difference in other people’s lives.”

Secret Millionaire’s Real Dani Johnson, http://www.christianpost.com/news/secret-millionaires-real-dani-johnson-49319 ; March 7, 2011, Illustraton by Jim L. Wilson and Jim Sandell

Luke 16:9 (GW) {Jesus continued,} “I'm telling you that although wealth is often used in dishonest ways, you should use it to make friends for yourselves. When life is over, you will be welcomed into an eternal home.

For years, Bill Gates, chairman and CEO of Microsoft has been the world’s richest man. He has ceded his ranking. He has given away more than $28 billion through his charitable foundation.

--The Week, March 18, 2011 p. 8 Illustration by Jim L. Wilson and Rodger Russell

Perhaps Gates has learned the truth in Jesus’ words, “It is more blessed to give than to receive.”

Acts 20:35 (CEV) By everything I did, I showed how you should work to help everyone who is weak. Remember that our Lord Jesus said, "More blessings come from giving than from receiving."

Jessica Vega funded her wedding and honeymoon by dying of cancer--well sort of. As it turns out she wasn't really dying, she was just scamming her neighbors. Attorney General Eric T. Schneiderman said, "To prey on people's emotions by pretending to have a terminal illness is unconscionable. . ."

-- http://articles.chicagotribune.com/2012-05-23/news/sns-rt-us-usa-crime-
newyork-bridebre84m1gb-20120523_1_victims-jessica-vega-terminal-illness Illustration by Jim L. Wilson

He’s right. It shows a lack of conscious on her part, but what about the people who gave? They show a tender heart. Before the cynical voice in us takes over and forces us to think about their gullibility, we need to reflect on their decency. Vega’s story was compelling. All she wanted to do before she died was to marry her sweetheart. Her story touched the decent residents of the Hudson Valley of New York and they gave.

Vega robbed them of their money, but I pray she didn’t rob them of their spirit of generosity. One would be a crime the second would be a tragedy. While I would encourage you to check people’s stories out so as not to enable their sin with your kindness, I would also encourage you to open your hearts up to needy people when you can help them.

Matthew 5:40-42 (HCSB) As for the one who wants to sue you and take away your shirt, let him have your coat as well. 41 And if anyone forces you to go one mile, go with him two. 42 Give to the one who asks you, and don’t turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you.

Rankin Paynter of Winchester, Kentucky made a business decision to purchase the entire inventory of a closing Kmart store. It looked like a promising business proposition. After thinking about it a little and observing the poor around his town, he donated the entire $200,000 worth of goods to a community charity. The charity says “Paynter’s donation will help to clothe every struggling family in the area through next winter.

On Paynter’s part he said, “We’ve all been put on this earth to help each other through. If I can help people through I’m Happy.”

Acts 20:35 (ESV) “In all things I have shown you that by working hard in this way we must help the weak and remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he himself said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’”

Drew Cox set up a lemonade stand in Gladewater, Texas. Drew is 6-years-old and sold his lemonade for 25 cents per glass. He made a profit of over $10,000.

Drew’s sign said “Please Help My Dad.” Drew’s dad was sick with cancer and the bills were piling up. When news local residents heard about the lemonade stand they flocked to the stand. They paid extra for their lemonade. One check was for $5000.

Many people shared the proverbial cup of cold water with the Cox family that day, and for doing so it was like they were serving Jesus.

Matthew 10:42 (ESV) “And whoever gives one of these little ones even a cup of cold water because he is a disciple, truly, I say to you, he will by no means lose his reward.”

Billy Ray Harris was panhandling on a Kansas City street corner when a passer-by dropped her diamond engagement ring into his cup. When Sarah Darling realized later what she had accidently done she retraced her steps and Harris happily returned it to her.

Darling’s fiancé set up a website fund for Harris and so far over 7,300 donors have pledged $168,000 for Harris. “I like it, but I don’t think I deserve it,” said Harris. What has the world come to when a person returns something that doesn’t belong to him, and all this happens?”

Jesus calls us to do unto others as we would have them do unto us. Billy Ray Harris was just following the golden rule.--Jim L. Wilson and Rodger Russell

Mark and Cindy Hill hit the jackpot, literally. In the Missouri lottery they gathered in a $293 million fortune.

Mark and Cindy have bought the town a new firehouse, a new baseball field, refurbished the town’s wastewater system, and topped off the high school scholarship fund. Their gifts have equaled 25 years of taxpayer receipts for the town. Walt Stubbs, the fire chief of Camden Point where the Hills live said about them, “That’s just the kind of people they are, they were that way before the money came.”

Each of us should try to live in such a way that our neighbors would say of us, “that’s just the kind of people they are,” and mean it in a good way. --Jim L. Wilson and Rodger Russell

1 Peter 4:10 (ESV) As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace:

Georgia transportation officials say motorists will no longer be able to pay-it-forward at toll booths because other drivers have been complaining about the possibility of theft. Bert Brantley, from the State Road and Tollway Authority said some driers complained that they thought some toll booth workers were pocketing extra money rather than throwing it into the coin basket to benefit the drivers behind them. He said the contractor that collects the tolls has told workers they can no longer accept the extra money and must return all change to the driver. Brantley said when it was a complaint every now and then, he wasn’t concerned, but added, “But we had repeat incidences of customers not believing that their pay-it-forward gesture was actually making it forward.”—Jim L. Wilson and Jim Sandell.

Georgia motorists banned from paying it forward at toll booths,
http://www.upi.com/Odd_News/2013/08/16/Georgia-
motorists-banned-from-paying-it-forward-at-toll-booths/UPI-16921376672790, Accessed August 16, 2013.

2 Corinthians 9:10-11 (CEV) God gives seed to farmers and provides everyone with food. He will increase what you have, so that you can give even more to those in need. (11) You will be blessed in every way, and you will be able to keep on being generous. Then many people will thank God when we deliver your gift.

The “Whatever video team” ran into Jarosla, a 53-year-old homeless Czech man, while distributing clothing from the Thread Society (www.threadsociety.com) to people in need. They listened as Jaroslav explained that He came to America in hopes of finding a job, but was unsuccessful. While in a New York bus terminal, sleeping, he was robbed of his cell phone and all the money he had in the world--$1000.00. He spent the next month sleeping in shelters and on the streets.

The video team sprung into action, getting him some new clothes, a haircut, a night’s stay in a New York hotel and a one-way plane ticket to Prague, so he could get home to his family.—Jim L. Wilson

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/11/25/helping-a-homeless-man-home-_n_4337838.html?ir=New+York (accessed 11-26-13)

Proverbs 19:17 (NASB) One who is gracious to a poor man lends to the LORD, And He will repay him for his good deed.

Kathleen Magowan taught school for 35 years in Simsbury, Connecticut Public schools and lived a rather routine life. She attended exercise classes, her church and she went to work. Obvious by her profession as a school teacher, she was a very smart lady, but no one knew how smart an investor she was until her death.

At her death, the 87 year-old never married woman had amassed nearly $6 million in assets, much of which she left to charity.

http://www.onenewspage.com/n/US/74w4fdz1c/Elderly-twins-were-secret-millionaires.htm (accessed 11-26-13)

She lived a simple life and was wealthy beyond measure. Not because of what she had—but because of what she gave.—Jim L. Wilson

Acts 20:35 (NIV) In everything I did, I showed you that by this kind of hard work we must help the weak, remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said: 'It is more blessed to give than to receive.'"

When members of the YouTube comedy group, Whatever, met a Czech national named Jaroslav in New York City, they knew they needed to do more than include him in a film. Jaroslav didn’t speak much English, but explained that he had come to the United States a few months earlier in hopes of finding work. Things did not work out as he planned. When he lost his job at a Florida hotel, he went back to New York, only to be robbed and then to end up living between homeless shelters and on the streets of New York City. He told member so of the group that all he wanted was to get home to the Czech Republic and see his family. Since the group was handing out warm clothing to people who lived on the street, Jaroslav’s story resonated with them. They fed and clothed him, got him a haircut and shave, and put him up in a hotel. Then, they bought him a plane ticket back to his home near Prague. The owner of a clothing company who was giving away the clothes says it wasn’t cheap, but Brandon Levithan said it was the right thing to do. Levithan said, “He was just stuck all alone. Even though I couldn’t relate to him, I kind of thought about his situation. Like, if I was stranded in any foreign country, how many people I could call to say ‘Please get me home.’ And it didn’t matter what the cost was. But he just didn’t have any support system to get him home. He tried contacting his family but he couldn’t get home. And his own country wouldn’t help him.” Levithan says the filmmakers plan to post a video of the experience as soon as they learn how the story ends.—Jim L. Wilson and Jim Sandell

Good Samaritans meet homeless Czech man in New York, buy him a ticket home, by Tim Sprinkle, http://news.yahoo.com/blogs/sideshow/good-samaritans-meet-
homeless-czech-man-in-new-york--buy-him-a-ticket-home-014832347.html, Accessed November 25, 2013.

1 John 3:17 (NASB) But whoever has the world's goods, and sees his brother in need and closes his heart against him, how does the love of God abide in him?

Just before Christmas an anonymous woman walked into the Wal-Mart in Mesa, Arizona, went up to the customer service desk and gave them $5000.00 with the instruction to pay off as many delinquent layaway orders as that amount would cover. The store cleared 30 orders. “When Wal-Mart employees began phoning customers who hadn’t been able to pay for Christmas gifts to tell them the news, the tears flowed.”

If the recipients felt so blessed, think of how blessed the donor was. Jesus said it is more blessed to give than receive.

Acts 20:35 (ESV) (35) In all things I have shown you that by working hard in this way we must help the weak and remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he himself said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’”

When a tutor and mentor at a Houston area school found out that some of the children there were eating cold sandwiches for lunch because of overdue bills, he decided to do something about it. Kenny Thompson paid $465 out of his own pocket to ensure all the children had hot meals. He says he didn’t realize how widespread the problem was until he heard about a Utah school throwing away the lunches of students with negative balances. He discovered students at his own school were eating cold cheese or peanut butter and jelly sandwiches and others avoided the lunch line completely choosing not to eat rather than face the embarrassment of not being able to afford to pay for lunch. Thompson’s wife encouraged him to follow through on his idea, but warned him he would not be able to buy the new pair of work boots he wanted. He said that was fine, and paid the entire overdue balance for everyone. Afterwards, Thompson said, “It was the best money I ever spent. It was the best gift I ever gave myself. I went onto my car and screamed.”—Jim L. Wilson and Jim Sandell

'Lunch angel' pays kids' overdue accounts at elementary school, by Danika Fears, http://www.today.com/moms/lunch-angel-pays-kids-overdue-accounts-elementary-school-2D12062213; Accessed February 6, 2014.

Romans 13:8 (ESV) (8) Owe no one anything, except to love each other, for the one who loves another has fulfilled the law.

Hector Montoya wanted a PlayStation 4. He saved $300 from his meager allowance. Hector heard the news about a mother and her 6-year-old child killed in a house fire. He made the choice then. With the help of the Grand Prairie, Texas Fire Department, Hector purchased about 100 smoke detectors and had them installed in neighborhood homes that did not have one. “Saving a life is more important,” Hector told CBS News.

A generous heart like Hector’s is a wonderful thing. Look around. What could some of the unnecessary spending do to improve the lives in our neighborhood? --Jim L. Wilson and Rodger Russell

Acts 4:34 (HCSB) (34) For there was not a needy person among them, because all those who owned lands or houses sold them, brought the proceeds of the things that were sold,

Mark Bustos is 30 years old and is a hairstylist who works at an upscale Manhattan salon 6 days a week. On his day off Bustos, goes down onto the streets of New York and gives free haircuts to homeless people living on the sidewalks.

He got started giving away trims during a trip to the Philippines. “The feeling was so rewarding, I decided to bring the positive energy back to NYC.”

The people Bustos helps are blessed by his gift but Mark Bustos is doubly blessed. Each of us can find some way to bless those less fortunate than ourselves. Jim L. Wilson and Rodger Russell

Acts 20:35 (HCSB) In every way I’ve shown you that by laboring like this, it is necessary to help the weak and to keep in mind the words of the Lord Jesus, for He said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’”

Bob Blackley of Winston-Salem, N.C. has discovered a great way to celebrate his birthday. For the past three birthdays, his 57th, 58th, and 59th, he has stood on a busy street corner holding a cardboard sign that read, “I have a job. I have a home. Could you use an extra $5?” He gives a five dollar bill to everyone who responds. This year he gave out $800. He has increased the amount by $50 each year. Blackley says “I don’t care what the recipients do with the money. If it puts a smile on their face, it’s theirs. That’s what life’s all about—smiling.”

I don’t know that smiling is what life is all about but Bob Blackley has learned a Biblical secret--it is more blessed to give than to receive. -- Jim L. Wilson and Rodger Russell.

In the middle of a typically hectic Monday night at a Texas Chick-Fil-A, one man made a huge difference. The man, who has not been identified, paid for his meal then gave a donation of $1,000 telling employees he wanted to pay for everyone in the line behind him. Employees said most customers smiled, and some cried when they told them their meal had been paid for. They said one woman remarked that she had had a rough day and her tears were tears of joy. The franchise owner, Brian LaCriox said the mysterious man made a lot of people happy. He said customers have purchased meals for others before, but he had never seen anything like this. LaCriox added, “He paid for 88 cars in a little over an hour. He pretty much bought everyone’s meal in the drive-thru for a little over an hour.”—Jim L. Wilson and Jim Sandell.

Man pays $1,000 to feed those in drive-thru at Abilene Chick-Fil-A, by John Grobe,
http://www.ktxs.com/news/man-pays-1000-to-feed-those-in-drivethru-at-abilene-chickfila/28089930, Accessed September 16, 2014.

2 Corinthians 9:11 (HCSB) You will be enriched in every way for all generosity, which produces thanksgiving to God through us.

An Indiana pizza delivery driver was surprised with a $1,268 tip when he delivered two pizzas to Indiana Wesleyan University’s chapel. Keith Newman, the chief executive officer of Residential Education at the school told students during the chapel service that he was ordering pizza to illustrate an idea for them. His idea was: “Do for one what you wish you could do for everyone.” When James Gilpin delivered the pizzas, totaling $12.50, he received the $1,268 cash tip, $70 in gift cards, and inspirational messages for the students in chapel that day. Gilpin said he will use the money to give his children some great Christmas gifts this year. He also said he is finding inspiration and encouragement from the letters written to him by the students.—Jim L. Wilson and Jim Sandell.

Pizza driver gets $1,268 tip at college chapel, By Ben Hooper, http://www.upi.com/Odd_News/2014/10/10/Pizza-driver-gets-1268-tip-at-college-chapel/3201412950046/?spt=sec&or=on, Accessed October 10, 2014.

Matthew 25:40 (HCSB) “And the King will answer them, ‘I assure you: Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of Mine, you did for Me.’

Authorities in the Boston area say a mystery man has shown up to make the holiday season brighter from employees of two local coffee shops. In one case, a man wearing a cowboy hat walked up to the counter and handed the worker 15 envelopes, each containing a crisp $100 bill. A man, believed to be the same person handed eight envelopes to workers at another coffee shop nearby a couple of days earlier.—Jim L. Wilson and Jim Sandell.

Mystery man hands out $100 bills in Massachusetts, news.yahoo.com/mystery-man-hands-100-bills-massachusetts-163404932.html, Accessed December 16, 2014.

Hebrews 13:2 (NLT) Don’t forget to show hospitality to strangers, for some who have done this have entertained angels without realizing it!

23-year-old Christine Royles of Portland, Maine needed a kidney transplant. Instead of just waiting for a donor she got creative. She put a sign on the back of her car asking strangers to consider donating. Josh Dall-Leighton saw the sign in a mall parking lot and told his wife, “I have to try.” The 30-year-old proved to be a match and will be giving Christine one of his kidneys.

“If someone needs help, you do whatever you can to help them,” Josh said. “I have three kids of my own. I want them to know these aren’t just words.”

What a great picture of what the Christian life should be. -- Jim L. Wilson and Rodger Russell

1 Timothy 6:17-19 (HCSB) Instruct those who are rich in the present age not to be arrogant or to set their hope on the uncertainty of wealth, but on God, who richly provides us with all things to enjoy. (18) ?Instruct them? to do what is good, to be rich in good works, to be generous, willing to share, (19) storing up for themselves a good reserve for the age to come, so that they may take hold of life that is real.

There is no greater gift than the gift of life. While perusing her Reddit feed last fall, Jennifer Moss came across a desperate plea from 26-year-old Kayla Davis. Davis had been on daily kidney dialysis for three years. She needed a kidney transplant and the wait for a kidney in her portion of the U.S. was three to five years.

Jennifer, whom Kayla had never met, knew that she lived in the same state and had the same blood type as Kayla. She agreed to further testing which proved her kidney was a good match for Kayla. So what did she do? She gave one of her kidneys to a total stranger in need.

If God blesses us for giving a cup of cold water to a stranger in the name of Jesus, how much more does He bless us for giving a life saving kidney? -- Jim L. Wilson and Rodger Russell

http://appealingstudio.com/this-reddit-user-is-donating-a-kidney-to-a-total-stranger/
Referenced in The Week, May 15, 2015, p. 2

Matthew 10:42 (HCSB) And whoever gives just a cup of cold water to one of these little ones because he is a disciple—I assure you: He will never lose his reward!”

Fethullah Uzumcuoglu and Esra Polat celebrated their wedding day in an unusual way. At the reception in the southern Turkish city of Kilis near the Syrian border they hosted 4,000 Syrian refugees. They took the money they had received as wedding gifts, borrowed a food truck from a local charity, and paid for a feast for the refugees. They served meals while still wearing their wedding finery. The groom said “We started our journey to happiness by making others happy. That’s a great feeling. Seeing the happiness in the eyes of the Syrian children is just priceless.”

There is so much right with this. They are seeking happiness in the right place. They are practicing generosity. They are helping those in a less fortunate situation than their own. They are an example to others of how to make the best of a bad situation.—Jim L. Wilson and Rodger Russell.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/europe/turkey/11783353/Meet-the-Turkish-couple-who-spent-their-wedding-day-feeding-4000-Syrian-refugees.html

Matthew 25:34-46 (NASB) "Then the King will say to those on His right, 'Come, you who are blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world. (35) ~'For I was hungry, and you gave Me something to eat; I was thirsty, and you gave Me something to drink; I was a stranger, and you invited Me in; (36) naked, and you clothed Me; I was sick, and you visited Me; I was in prison, and you came to Me.' (37) "Then the righteous will answer Him, 'Lord, when did we see You hungry, and feed You, or thirsty, and give You something to drink? (38) ~'And when did we see You a stranger, and invite You in, or naked, and clothe You? (39) ~'When did we see You sick, or in prison, and come to You?' (40) "The King will answer and say to them, 'Truly I say to you, to the extent that you did it to one of these brothers of Mine, even the least of them, you did it to Me.' (41) "Then He will also say to those on His left, 'Depart from Me, accursed ones, into the eternal fire which has been prepared for the devil and his angels; (42) for I was hungry, and you gave Me nothing to eat; I was thirsty, and you gave Me nothing to drink; (43) I was a stranger, and you did not invite Me in; naked, and you did not clothe Me; sick, and in prison, and you did not visit Me.' (44) "Then they themselves also will answer, 'Lord, when did we see You hungry, or thirsty, or a stranger, or naked, or sick, or in prison, and did not take care of You?' (45) "Then He will answer them, 'Truly I say to you, to the extent that you did not do it to one of the least of these, you did not do it to Me.' (46) "These will go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous into eternal life."

Generosity

In October 2015, Sanmay Ved found a bargain. He saw that the domain “Google.com” was available for $12 and snagged the multi-billion dollar company’s URL. His quick thinking wound up benefitting a local nonprofit group. In less than a minute Google realized the mistake and cancelled the sale. Ved agreed to cancel the sale and the company gave him a reward of $6,006.13, a numerical play on the company’s name. Ved decided to donate the money to a local charity and when Google learned of his generosity, they provided a matching donation, giving the charity a total donation of $12,012.26.—Jim L. Wilson and Jim Sandell.

Google Reveals Its Playful Reward for Guy Who Briefly Owned Google.com, By Alyssa Newcomb, http://abcnews.go.com/Technology/googles-reveals-playful-reward-guy-briefly-owned-google/story?id=36596512, Accessed January 29, 2016.

2 Corinthians 9:11 (HCSB) You will be enriched in every way for all generosity, which produces thanksgiving to God through us.

A very generous person helped almost 200 shoppers at a Pennsylvania Walmart have a brighter Christmas when they paid off all of the store’s layaway items. Store Manager Ryan Kennedy said he got a phone call from a mysterious person who offered to pay off all $46,265.59 worth of layaway items. A few days later, a woman arrived with a check and the store began notifying all of the customers that their balance was paid in full. A company spokesperson said this was the third year in a row that someone had offered to pay off all layaway items at a Pennsylvania Wal-Mart. The identity of the person remains a mystery. Kennedy said, “I would just be curious as to what made them choose us, and let them know how grateful we are for the gesture, and how much it meant to the customers that we have been able to serve.”—Jim L. Wilson & Jim Sandell

Matthew 6:3–4 (HCSB) “But when you give to the poor, don’t let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, ⁴ so that your giving may be in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you.”

GENEROSITY

Carrie Rausch, a 108 year-old woman can live her remaining years in comfort thanks to help from strangers. She lived in the same assisted living facility for three years, and was in danger of losing her home because her financial reserves were almost gone. Rausch’s daughter did not want her mother to be moved to another facility, so she set up a GoFundMe account with a goal of $40,000 to cover one year of room and board. Within three months, people donated over $43,000. After Rausch’s expenses were covered, the remaining money was donated to the church where she is a lifelong member.–Jim L. Wilson & Jim Sandell

1 Timothy 6:18 (HCSB)“Instruct them to do what is good, to be rich in good works, to be generous, willing to share,”

A woman who wanted to help her church build a new building put a rare and valuable gift in the offering plate during a special Easter offering. The woman, who prefers to remain anonymous, gave an 1866 proof Liberty Head double eagle coin to the church to help finance the new building. Her church has meet in an elementary school since it was founded in 2009. The church said they discovered that the coin could be worth as much as $300,000 because it may be one of only ten of the coins known to still exist. They plan to auction the coin, but the advance payment of $150,000 toward the final auction price helped the church begin construction on the building.–Jim L. Wilson and Jim Sandell

Rare $300k coin to fund new home for Indiana church, by Justin Mack,

2 Corinthians 9:11 (CSB)“You will be enriched in every way for all generosity, which produces thanksgiving to God through us.”

Money transfer company WorldRemit analyzed remittances from people all over the world and found that Filipinos living abroad, especially those in Germany are the most generous when it comes to sending money home. The company found that Filipinos living in Germany sent home an average of $32.50 more than usual around Valentine’s Day. Filipinos living in Norway and New Zealand also sent more money home around Valentine’s Day. WorldRemit said millions of Filipinos live and work abroad and the money send home accounts for 10 percent of the Philippines’ gross domestic product. The company makes digital money transfers available to senders in more than 50 countries, but only compiled information for the Philippines for the study.–Jim L. Wilson and Jim Sandell.

1 Timothy 6:18 (CSB)“Instruct them to do what is good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and willing to share,”

Earl Melchert was driving by his lakeside property when he saw a female figure in the distance. He recognized her as a local teenager who had been abducted. Her face had been all over the news for the last 29 days. Jasmine Block, 15 had escaped her three kidnappers and Melchert picked her up and kept her until police arrived. Police set up a celebration to present Earl Melchert, 65, a reward check of $7000. He took the check and immediately gave it to Jasmine. “It’s the best thing I’ve ever done,” he said. He twice made a difference in the Block family life.

We can make a difference in a life every time we give or serve those less fortunate than ourselves. You may not get your name in the paper, but the people who receive your generosity are no less thankful. —Jim L. Wilson and Rodger Russell

Give, and it will be given to you; a good measure—pressed down, shaken together, and running over—will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured back to you.”

Old outdated donations are regular at The Cardiff Food Bank in Wales. One recently received was unusual. It was a can of kidney soup that was at least 46 years old. The price tag on the top of the can was in money that the UK discontinued in 1971 and the maker of the soup, Heinze, said they stopped making kidney soup over 35 years ago.

Giving food and clothes to shelters and food banks is a good thing to do, but let’s avoid giving the leftovers. The food banks cannot use those kinds of gifts. —Jim L. Wilson and Rodger Russell

http://www.latimes.com/sns-dailymeal-1853309-old-heinz-soup-can-donated-food-bank-cardiff-10917-20171008-story.html

Do nothing out of selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility consider others as more important than yourselves.

Medical research charity, Harrison’s Fund, conducted an experiment to test whether people were more likely to donate money to help dogs or humans, and they concluded it’s the former.

The researchers printed two advertisements. Both posed the question: “Would you give £5 to save Harrison from a slow, painful death?” The only difference between the advertisements was the picture - one featured Harrison as a little boy, the other as a dog. Harrison the dog received the most donations.

There is nothing wrong about giving to help animals. But what culture can justify caring more about animals than children? —Jim L. Wilson and Rodger Russell.

http://www.independent.co.uk/news/science/humans-empathy-dogs-more-people-study-animals-pets-a8033056.html

Mark 12:31 (CSB) “The second is, Love your neighbor as yourself. There is no other command greater than these.”

Michelle England beat cancer in 2014, but the cancer returned a few years later. She wasn’t able to work while she underwent chemotherapy and struggled to pay all of her bills. She was able to pay her mortgage, and utilities, but wasn’t able to make the car payment, so the dealership repossessed her vehicle.

When the staff of the dealership learned the reason for her non-payment they forgave the debt, giving the car back to her, free and clear, with a full tank of gas and new tires.

When she learned of their generosity, England started crying and said, “When you go through cancer and you get someone special in your life...they were just angels for me. People might feel like nobody’s there for you, but, yall, this is a prime example.”—Jim Wilson and Jim Sandell

https://www.wcpo.com/news/our-community/people/dealership-pays-off-repossessed-car-for-customer-with-cancer

You will be enriched in every way for all generosity, which produces thanksgiving to God through us.

Jim McElwain, the former coach of the Florida Gators football team accepted a low offer for his home in Gainesville because he thought it would help a family in need. McElwain left his position with Florida and took a job with the Michigan Wolverines. He had not listed his house for sale, when the low offer came in. The coach said he planned to refuse the offer, until he learned that the house would be perfect for the family of Rick Stabb, who had two children with special needs. Staab had visited the house for fund raising events, and when he learned that Coach McElwain was moving, decided to make an offer. McElwain sold the home for $400,000 less than he paid for it, but said he accepted the offer to help the family.—Jim L. Wilson and Jim Sandell.

Instruct them to do what is good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and willing to share, storing up treasure for themselves as a good foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of what is truly life.

A Maine rapper surprised movie goers with free tickets to a satire movie at a Portland theater. Rory Ferreira, who goes by the name Milo, bought all 129 seats to the 4:20 showing of the movie and used social media to invite everyone interested to see a movie with him. Ferreira said he was inspired by the movie’s director, Boots Riley, to do something good for society.—Jim L Wilson and Jim Sandell

https://www.yahoo.com/news/rapper-buys-every-seat-house-takes-strangers-movies-163923842.html

The Northern California Camp Fire killed over 81 people and destroyed more than 13,500 homes. In an effort to help his hometown, Aaron Rodgers of the Green Bay Packers donated 1 million dollars to his home state.—Jim L. Wilson and Bobby Oh

Proverbs 11:24–25 (CSB) “One person gives freely, yet gains more; another withholds what is right, only to become poor. ²⁵ A generous person will be enriched, and the one who gives a drink of water will receive water.”

Hannah Oliver-Willetts of the United Kingdom was working tirelessly to raise funds in support of her son, Zac, who is suffering from Leukemia. The special treatment, while likely to be successful, is not yet available in the UK and is therefore very expensive. The Hospital contributed by cutting the rate in half, and a crowd-funding page was also helpful, but Hannah still has been unable to raise the needed funds. Things seemed hopeless until all of the sudden a “mystery man,” called to inform Hannah that he would be donating $130,000 dollars. Hannah pressed the man to identify himself, but he insisted that this was not necessary. Zac now has the necessary funds and will be treated before the end of the month. —Jim L. Wilson and Benjamin Fox

Matthew 6:1–14 (CSB)“Be careful not to practice your righteousness in front of others to be seen by them. Otherwise, you have no reward with your Father in heaven. So whenever you give to the poor, don’t sound a trumpet before you, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and on the streets, to be applauded by people. Truly I tell you, they have their reward. But when you give to the poor, don’t let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your giving may be in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you. Whenever you pray, you must not be like the hypocrites, because they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners to be seen by people. Truly I tell you, they have their reward. But when you pray, go into your private room, shut your door, and pray to your Father who is in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you. When you pray, don’t babble like the Gentiles, since they imagine they’ll be heard for their many words. Don’t be like them, because your Father knows the things you need before you ask him. Therefore, you should pray like this: Our Father in heaven, your name be honored as holy. Your kingdom come. Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us today our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. And do not bring us into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one. For if you forgive others their offenses, your heavenly Father will forgive you as well.”

Outside Walmart in Erie Pennsylvania, someone was thinking of the needs of others when he/she dropped a winning lottery ticket into the Salvation Army’s red kettle. A “Fantastic 10’s” lottery ticket was pulled out amongst the quarters, dimes, and nickels worth $1,000 jackpot. Instead of reaping the reward themselves, they wanted to bless those who are less fortunate. Major Leslie Walter says, “We’ve received donations of winning instant tickets in the past, but they’re usually in an amount of $10 or $20—never anything of this size.” —Jim L. Wilson and Jacob Davidson

Matthew 6:20 (CSB)“But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys, and where thieves don’t break in and steal.”

In 2018, actor and filmmaker Tyler Perry gave a gift to his hometown by paying off over $430,000 worth of layaway items at two stores in the Atlanta metro area. Perry shared a message on social media announcing that he had paid off the layaways. He said he knew it is a hard time and a lot of people were struggling, and he was grateful to be able to help this way. Perry admitted he had hoped to remain anonymous, but word leaked out so he released the news himself. Perry added, “God Bless, go get your stuff, Merry Christmas.”—Jim L. Wilson and Jim Sandell.

Proverbs 11:25 (CSB)“A generous person will be enriched, and the one who gives a drink of water will receive water.”

A Kansas woman donated 204 pairs of shoes to flood victims in the neighboring state of Nebraska after she bought all of the remaining stock at a store that was going out of business. Addy Tritt said she wanted to help others and heard about good deals at the Payless store that was closing. When the price dropped to $1 per pair, she negotiated with the owner to buy all of the remaining shoes for $100. The shoes included 162 pairs of baby shoes, two pair of men’s shoes, and several pair of women shoes. The retail price of the shoes would have been more than $6,000 dollars.—Jim L. Wilson and Jim Sandell

Proverbs 11:25 (CSB)“A generous person will be enriched, and the one who gives a drink of water will receive water.”

In his book, Enemies of the Heart: Breaking Free from the Four Emotions That Control You, Andy Stanley writes, "Greed is conquered with generosity. Generous giving will break the grip of greed on your life. So whether or not you think you have extra, give and give generously. You’ve got to give to the point that it forces you to adjust your lifestyle. If you’re not willing to give to the point that it impacts your lifestyle, then according to Jesus you’re greedy." –Jim L. Wilson

Ephesians 4:28 (CSB) “Let the thief no longer steal. Instead, he is to do honest work with his own hands, so that he has something to share with anyone in need.”

Bloomfield Colorado police officer Carolyn Becker has a special connection to a young man she has never met and has found ways to go above and beyond the call of duty to help him. Becker had wanted to help someone by being a live organ donor. She inquired about one person, but was not a suitable match. She is a mother of two and would do anything for her children, and when she learned of a boy with a genetic condition who needed a liver replacement, and she was a suitable match, Becker underwent surgery to remove the left lobe of her liver to give to the boy. After the transplant, her liver regenerated, and the boy began to recover. Yet, Becker leaned that his family needed more than $20,000 to cover medical debt they had run up from procedures over the years. An online fundraiser had not done much, so Becker took to the streets with a sign. The sign told passersby that she had donated part of kidney to the boy and asked them to donate money to help cover the costs. Her efforts quickly raised over half of the money needed. Becker said she has never met this young man, but hopes she will one day. She said, “He deserves nothing else but to be happy and healthy.” –Jim L. Wilson and Jim Sandell

https://www.kgw.com/article/syndication/heartthreads/police-officer-donated-liver-panhandled-for-sick-11-year-old-shes-never-met/507-49463415-8cbd-4f1a-9f2c-1d99b304a1ba

1 Timothy 6:18–19 (CSB) “Instruct them to do what is good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and willing to share, storing up treasure for themselves as a good foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of what is truly life.”

A third grade calls in a Tennessee school surprised one of their classmates with new toys after the boy lost everything in a house fire. When they hard and Daniel Hunt losing all of his toys, his classmates started a secret toy drive to replace Hunt’s possessions. His friends and teachers gave him a lot of new games and toys, and Hunt was ecstatic when the class presented everything to him. The school released photographs of the event and captioned the photos with, “He received the toys today and he was so surprised and thankful! This is certainly one of the#37846Reasons we love (our school).” –Jim L. Wilson and Jim Sandell

When Texas School Principal Sarah Schecter heard that Nate Jones, father to three of her students need a kidney, she got personally involved—she donated one of hers.

When asked why she would do this, she responded by saying it was because of her faith. She said, “God expects you to share what you have, and this is just one way you can share good health, and I'm thankful that I was able to share it with him.” —Jim L. Wilson

https://www.npr.org/2020/02/13/805537120/texas-principal-donates-a-kidney-to-father-of-3-of-her-students

Adam Bratton of the Nonprofit Partnership commented on the needs of the non-profit sector as they help the needy in during the COVID-19 pandemic. He said, “At the same time that their revenue goes down significantly, the needs for their services increase dramatically . . . not only do people have no money to give, those same people who used to donate now have no money and need help themselves.”

Bratton says, “If people are really looking to support the nonprofit sector, it's finding those nonprofits that you care about and making a donation, whatever that might be.” —Jim L. Wilson

The point is this: The person who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and the person who sows generously will also reap generously. Each person should do as he has decided in his heart—not reluctantly or out of compulsion, since God loves a cheerful giver.

Allen Marshall saved $900 dollars for his mother’s 97^th birthday party and to buy a special tool. When the coronavirus pandemic meant that his mother could not have a party, the Michigan man decided that the tool could wait, because he wanted to do something to bless health care workers in his area. He made arrangement with a gas station near three Detroit hospitals and stood at a busy intersection with a sign offering free gasoline for nurses. As people drove by, many honked, and nurses held up the badges showing their appreciation.

The idea of free gas for nurses was so popular that other people, including some homeless from the area made donations to the cause as well. Several area nurses expressed their appreciation after filling their tanks at the station. Marshall said his faith in God lead him to make the gesture. He said it does not always take money to encourage people; sometimes a word of thanks goes a long way. He added, “It takes so little, you know…very little you have to say to somebody to make a difference.”—Jim L. Wilson and Jim Sandell

According to the grace given to us, we have different gifts: If prophecy, use it according to the proportion of one’s faith; if service, use it in service; if teaching, in teaching; if exhorting, in exhortation; giving, with generosity; leading, with diligence; showing mercy, with cheerfulness.

During the 2020 Coronavirus Pandemic one of the hardest hit businesses were restaurants. Just hours before the Ohio governor ordered all bars and restaurants to shut down, a customer at the Coaches Bar and Grill in Columbus tipped $2500 on a $30 Check. “Please split this tab equally,” he wrote. Owner Benn Leonard said, “This is humanity at its best.”

When a person is unexpectedly generous in a difficult time they give hope and encouragement to those in need. We also know that the giver too, is especially blessed. —Jim L. Wilson and Rodger Russell.

You will be enriched in every way for all generosity, which produces thanksgiving to God through us.

In response to Taylor Swift’s contribution of over $30,000.00 to 18-year-old Vitoria Mario’s GoFundMe page, the grateful recipient said, "My goal is to create a charity that helps people like me.”

The point is this: The person who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and the person who sows generously will also reap generously.

During the summer of 2020, Singer Taylor Swift signed copies of her CD “Folklore” and gave them to Independent record stores to help them during the difficult days.

Each person should do as he has decided in his heart—not reluctantly or out of compulsion, since God loves a cheerful giver.

Two widows shared an unusual bond with Tanya, their server at an Ohio restaurant. The bond developed when Tanya told the two women that she had recently lost her husband. “The women said, 'You know, it's Restaurant Week and we're going to take care of you.'” They left a $2021.00 tip when they paid their bill.

Hundreds of shoppers at an Austin, Texas grocery store were preparing for deal with a fierce winter storm, when the power went out. One shopper documented the event on social media. The person reported they were standing in line when the power went off. An employee asked people to be patient while they checked everyone out and told shoppers the store had a process for events like this. The shopper moved two spaces in twenty minutes and then suddenly the line began moving quickly. When they reached the counter, the checker told them they could not bag any items for them, but to go ahead. When the person asked about paying, the employee told them to go ahead and be safe driving home. The shopper posted they could not believe the way the store handled a difficult situation. They said, “I salute (the store) for the kindness they showed us, the thoughtfulness they showed us, the generosity they showed us, and the caring that they showed us (along with the other hundreds of fellow Texans in the store at that time.)”—Jim L. Wilson and Jim Sandell

Marcus Rashford is a star on the soccer field for Manchester United, but is a star off the field for all of Brittan. Due to his influence and personal donations, he raised $28 million to combat poverty. As a child, he was food insecure, so he is motivated to see that disadvantaged children have something to eat.

He is “the youngest person to top The Sunday Times Giving List—a metric of philanthropy among rich Brits—is an achievement that has the whole country cheering.”

The Ministry of Railways gave Mayur Shelke the equivalent of $660.00 as a reward for rescuing a boy who fell in front of an oncoming train.

He didn’t just give the boy life, but he decided to share the reward with him. “I’ll give half of the amount, given to me as token of appreciation, for that child’s welfare & education,” he said.

Give to everyone who asks you, and from someone who takes your things, don’t ask for them back.

When asked about his pledge to give away almost everything he owns, the 7th most wealthy person in the world said, “Over many decades I have accumulated an almost incomprehensible sum simply by doing what I love to do. I’ve made no sacrifice nor has my family. Compound interest, a long runway, wonderful associates, and our incredible country have simply worked their magic. Society has a use for my money; I don’t.”

However, he views others as being more generous than himself. He says, “A much more admirable form of philanthropy than mine involves the giving of personal time and effort. I’ve done little of that. Those who give their love and time in order to directly help others—perhaps adding a monetary gift that requires them to give up the purchase of something meaningful for their own use—are the heroes of philanthropy. America has millions of such givers.”

Each person should do as he has decided in his heart—not reluctantly or out of compulsion, since God loves a cheerful giver.

Twenty children in the Louisville, Kentucky area received a surprise donation that was a dream come true. A partnership including the Boy and Girls Clubs of Kentucky, a home store, the Hope to Dream Program, and a local ministry known as Sleep in Heavenly Peace, provided the children with brand new beds, including linens, blankets, and pillows. Previously, the children had to arrange whatever they could find when it came to places to sleep. Tom Recklenward with Sleep in heavenly Peace said their organization had heard that as many as 3,000 in the area did not have a bed of their own. He added, “We’re making a dent in that and we’re going to keep working until every kid in Louisville has a bed. Our slogan is no kid sleeps on the floor in our town.” –Jim L. Wilson and Jim Sandell

https://www.wkyt.com/2021/08/15/louisville-children-need-surprised-with-new-beds/

According to Baptist Press, “On average, Americans gave 2.1 percent of their income to the church in 2017, a smaller share even than the 3.2 percent given during the Great Depression.”

“Don’t store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys, and where thieves don’t break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.

Poland’s Maria Andrejczyk won a silver medal at the Tokyo Olympics. But that was not her greatest accomplishment. She sacrificed her prize to help a stranger. When she heard about her countryman’s plight, she put her medal up for auction to help pay for the baby Miłoszek Małys needed heart surgery. She did not know the baby or the family, but she wanted to help.

She was successful. Zabka, a convenience store chain in Poland, won the bid for the medal, but gifted it back to the athlete. A spokesperson said, ““We were moved by the beautiful and extremely noble gesture of our Olympian, we decided to support [the benefit],” They continued. “We also decided that the silver medal from Tokyo will stay with Ms. Maria, who showed what it means to be [a true champion].”

Each person should do as he has decided in his heart—not reluctantly or out of compulsion, since God loves a cheerful giver.

NBA superstar Michael Jordan donated $10 Million in 2021 to open health clinics in Wilmington, North Carolina—his hometown. His generosity will help many who cannot afford the help they need.

95-year-old legendary actor Dick Van Dyke went to the Malibu Community Labor Exchange in April of 2021, not to seek a job, but to help those who were struggling to find work. The Daily Mail has pictures of him handing job seekers “stacks of bills.”

Each person should do as he has decided in his heart—not reluctantly or out of compulsion, since God loves a cheerful giver.

A classic 1956 Chevrolet sedan that was originally used as a military staff car at an Army Depot was sold twice to help the Honor Flight organization which provides free transportation for veterans to visit military memorials in Washington DC. The government auctioned the Chevrolet 150 in 1964 and it was bought by a farmer in Nebraska. He drove it for a year, but when he passed away, the car was stored in a barn, and became a chicken coop until a car enthusiast discovered it 25 years later. That person partially restored the classic car, and then sold it auction to raise funds for the organization. The winning bidder decided to completely flip the car, and then put it up for auction again three months later, to raise even more money for Honor Flights. —Jim L. Wilson and Jim Sandell