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On Giving to a Missionary…

by | Oct 14, 2014 | Missions Articles

BY RANDYBOHLENDER

I’m honestly searching out the reasons behind the mechanics, because if God doesn’t need our money, then the real variables in giving lie in each of our hearts.

What I’ve gathered from those who give regularly is this….

People give where their heart is.

In other words, people give to those doing things that they wish the could do but can’t, or simply feel is important enough to support.

Our life of prayer and reckless abandon in committing ourselves to adoption as a positive alternative to abortion – both in message and practice – resonates with some people.   They may want to adopt but the timing isn’t right, or perhaps they’re not even called to adopt but it just makes sense to them that we gain equity in a abortion debate when we’re willing to be a part of the answer.  Whatever the case, their money follows their heart.

People give to people they trust.

I would give once to someone I wasn’t sure of….but to be committed, I need to know they’re doing what they say they’re doing.  Even taking funds to do one good thing and doing a different, equally good thing with it seems like a breach of contract.

For ten years, we’ve done what we said we’d do with funds raised.  That has meant some odd situations in the past when we had bills due but money had been earmarked for other things, but we think the credibility gained is worth it.   When you donate to a specific thing, we use it for that.  When you donate without parameters, we do crazy stuff like buy diapers and groceries.

People give to make a difference.

The kingdom of God is not designed to be in maintenance mode. People giving to missionaries can expect that the missionary is actually doing things in relation to the cause.

Our life and ministry are so intertwined that it’s hard to tell if or where one stops and the other begins. Today’s events will include getting five kids to school, doing an adoption phone call with a family who is considering their role as adoptive parents, writing some thoughts and planning for a worship and teaching time.   Sometimes our ministry involves a microphone and sometimes it involves diaper rash.

This will all take place around running school shuttles for all those kids who are now walking, talking prophetic declarations that life is beautiful, and it does not stop at 5pm.

If you have given to us at some point over the past eleven years, we say thank you.  We could not have done this without your participation – we’re doing it together, really.

If you would like to give – your heart is for children, you believe we’re doing the stuff, and you think it makes a difference – please consider donating, either on a regular basis or a one time shot in the arm.

It all matters, and we’re very grateful.

If you would like to make a financial contribution to the Bohlender family, CLICK HERE.

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