Dear Friends,

I know. Your mailboxes are full of letters this time of year from people like me, inviting you to contribute to some very worthy causes and projects. To my shame, I’ve been tempted at times to be annoyed and wish there wasn’t so much asking! 

But I’ve been contemplating these words from Jesus, “Give to everyone who asks you, and from someone who takes your things, don’t ask for them back” (Luke 6:30).

Wow! But Lord… “Give to everyone who asks you,” He says. I tried that once – seriously, one year I sent a small check to everyone that asked. I mean small. But honestly, I wish it could have been huge! I wish I could give a big chunk to every need and every amazing, helpful, self-sacrificial project! I WANT to help them! Those requests remind me of the blind men, the sick women, the needy children, that asked Jesus for help. Jesus left this earth, but He put you and me here in His place, to be His hands and feet. 

And when I think I can’t… Here are some figures that make me blush (from the year 2015): 

  • If you make more than $50,000 a year, you are among the top 1% of earners on the entire planet. 

  • If your household income is above only $9,733, you’re doing better than most.
 
  • 80% of the world’s population lives on less than $10 a day (that’s $360 a year); more than 33% live on less than $2 a day.

I a m rich! Compared to most of this world’s population, we are all rich. That’s why we get those letters, That’s why we support so many projects and missions. Because we can. 

So as 2018 slips away, I’m inviting you to support God’s work wherever you find it. We who can, let’s do something to bring good news to a world in need. Let’s do something to bring bad news, hunger, greed, selfishness, lies, deception, violence, disrespect and grief to an end. Let’s bless those who are pouring them lives into service, hastening the coming of Jesus. Let’s support projects that bring help, hope, truth and joy. Let’s pour ourselves into freeing people from deceptions that will destroy them. Let’s help those who are showing folks a God up above who loves them and wants to give them Life Eternal. That’s why we’re here. 

Thank you, and God bless you and make you mighty for Him!

In Christ,

Pat Arrabito

Ps. I’m overwhelmed with the goodness of God, and with your generous support and love, your notes and prayers. Wishing you God’s sweet Spirit to fill your heart with His joy.