Over the last decade, today has become known as Giving Tuesday. What a great day to give! We have all just celebrated Thanksgiving and we are right at the start of the Christmas season — where we celebrate the greatest gift ever given, Jesus Christ, by worshiping and giving to others. 

Some might question whether we really need a day or even a season to give, but for those who follow Jesus, every day is a day to give because of what we have been given. In view of God’s mercy, every day we should consider how to best give of our time, resources, and our very lives — as an act of worship to God (Romans 12:1). Yet, we need reminders! Which makes this a great day (and season) to give. 

Jesus, the preeminent giver, taught more about possessions and money than He talked about sex, heaven, or hell. When He taught about resources, He often made clear that His heart — just like His Father’s — was for children, the poor, and the vulnerable. Jesus said, “Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has been pleased to give you the kingdom. Sell your possessions and give to the poor. Provide purses for yourselves that will not wear out, a treasure in heaven that will never fail, where no thief comes near and no moth destroys. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” - Luke 12:32-34 

Giving is a matter of the heart and the heart that gives is full of joy because, “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” - Acts 20:35.  It’s not a sacrifice to give, it is a benefit, it is a joy. Psychologist, sociologist, and philosopher, Erich Fromm said this about the joy of giving: “Giving is more joyous than receiving, not because it is a deprivation, but because in the act of giving lies the expression of my aliveness.”

So, do you want more joy? Do you want more blessings and contentment with what you have? Start by giving to your church then consider the needs of our city. There are many incredible organizations serving children, the poor, the vulnerable, and many others — all teaching how the Way of Jesus impacts every part of our lives. 

To get you started, here is a list of organizations The Center — Memphis recommends and many of our folks are involved with on a daily basis.

Teaching And Mentoring Children
Give901
Eikon Ministries
Orange Mound Outreach Ministries
Arise 2Read
Memphis Gridiron Ministries

Serving The Vulnerable
St. Jude
Memphis Union Mission
Neighborhood Christian Center
Church Health
YoungLives
Families Matter

Refugees
World Relief

Job Training
Economic Opportunities
Binghamton Development Corporation — Business Hub
Advance Memphis

Christian Discipleship And Education
Downline
The Center - Memphis