Christian Giving in Action: How Faith and Community Change Lives

What can we give? I am often asked about the principle of giving. Do I believe in it? What do I think about it? Let me say, I believe in giving. It is a door-opener, and more importantly, it opens the doors when appropriately done to make a community better. When I say better, I mean that the principles of giving are not to make someone rich, though I guess that can happen.

When we started Abundant Grace Fellowship, I said we were going to be givers. And so, we began to give into the world of recovery, the world of food insecurity, the world of homelessness, and missions overseas. This year, our fellowship has given over 60% of our income away. Like everyone, we have bills. But I think it is a solid number, and the year is not over. We donate money when and where we can. Pure religion undefiled is this… James 1:27 Pure and genuine religion in the sight of God the Father means caring for orphans and widows in their distress and refusing to let the world corrupt you.

Jesus told us the poor would always be with us. So, how do we bring comfort? For years, we have given into the Recovery Ministry, though it announced its closing, we gave into it, and now we are looking for another organization that helps people in the same way. The opposite of addiction has to do with the community. I know. I walked away from cocaine addiction when I was 26 years old. We give to an organization called “https://hundrednightsinc.org/”  Hundred Nights.

These folks have been helping individuals and families at risk of or experiencing homelessness with respect, dignity and compassion since 2010. Helping folks battle homelessness is important. Every time I read Acts 2, I think about the food and the feeding, and the need for deacons to help make sure that the people were fed. One of the places we help in our community is the Community Kitchen.

In their words, “Every meal should be a simple joy, not a source of stress or anxiety. At The Community Kitchen, we believe that everyone deserves access to nourishing food that fuels their bodies and souls.” In my life, I have been on the receiving end of another’s kindness. Matthew 25:35 For I was hungry, and you fed me. I was thirsty, and you gave me a drink. I was a stranger, and you invited me into your home. 36 I was naked, and you gave me clothing.

“https://thecommunitykitchen.org/” I was sick, and you cared for me. I was in prison, and you visited me.’ “Then these righteous ones will reply, ‘Lord, when did we ever see you hungry and feed you? Or thirsty and give you something to drink? 38 Or a stranger and show you hospitality? Or naked and give you clothing? 39 When did we ever see you sick or in prison and visit you? “And the King will say, ‘I tell you the truth, when you did it to one of the least of these my brothers and sisters, you were doing it to me! And finally, we come to the place of missions.”

Our key mission support is to a 30-year friend of ours. Her name is S. E. Coleman. She is 76 years old. When I first met her, she was working as a lifetime missionary and was in Belize. Over time, she has been in Mexico, Africa, and Cuba. Most recently,y she lives in Guatemala. In the last year, she has been in Africa, Mexico, and now Guatemala.

Over the years,s she has supported students, many of whom have jobs or are in ministry in their country. To this day, she continues in this work. Our 2026 is looking bright. I believe yours is as well. We continue to serve and to make sure we honor our place here in Keene. If you want to join us in this, we welcome you. Thank you for your cheerful giving.