Greetings in Christ,
I wanted to take this opportunity to get a note out to you as quickly as possible in light of the tragic scenes that we have seen unfolding in Illinois, Kentucky, Missouri, Arkansas, and Tennessee.
While we prepare for the Christmas Holiday, many of those who have lost everything were also doing the same. While material things may be replaced, the loss of human life is devastating, to say the least. Our thoughts and many prayers go out to all who have loved ones lost in this disaster.
If you're like me, you want to do something that will make a difference as people struggle to get back on their feet in the days and weeks ahead.
We are often constrained by time and distance as we live our lives and provide for our own families, especially during this Season. Yet, there is something we CAN do, and it's what we have done many times before as we have encountered needs such as this.
We can give of our finances to be a blessing.
While many wonderful charities will be glad to receive your money, we usually direct our giving to (NAME OF CHARITY) when events like this occur. (NAME OF CHARITY) has a wonderful track record of integrity and not only blesses people physically but also offers spiritual assistance as people sift through the rubble in tears and sadness.
While we can't meet all the needs now or in the future, we CAN do something to meet someone's need.
In light of this newly developed urgent need, we will be receiving an offering for (NAME OF CHARITY) on (DATE). Every dollar collected will be sent to be used for this need.
I realize it's the Christmas Season, yet I can only imagine the heartache so many are going through at this time.
Jesus said these words, which ring so true right now: 1 John 3:17 (NKJV)
17 But whoever has this world's goods, and sees his brother in need, and shuts up his heart from him, how does the love of God abide in him?
That verse is not meant to throw a “guilt trip” on anyone, but I genuinely do believe we all can do something, even if it's seemingly small in light of the tremendous need.
If you have already given to a ministry or charity, thank you for being a blessing!
Let's do our part!
Blessings in Christ,
Pastor John Doe