Generosity from the Heart
I recently had the privilege of leading a group of 24 to Harare, Zimbabwe, for a two-week evangelistic meeting. Our gatherings took place under a large tent at a local park in the Sunningdale district. Night after night, people came to hear the Good News of Jesus Christ.
Each afternoon, several of us would go door-to-door, inviting residents to our meetings. As we knocked on the door of one neighbor, I introduced myself and shared how Jesus is our hope in all of life’s circumstances.
When I finished speaking, the gentleman delivered a powerful rebuttal. “My good sir,” he replied, ‘thank you for your words of encouragement. But how do you expect me to listen to your Good News when I have nothing to eat? Wouldn’t you agree that I could hear you better if my stomach were full?” With my Bible in hand, I stood speechless, recognizing the truth in his words. I hung my head in shame.
Often, in our haste to share the message of salvation, we neglect to address the basic needs of those we encounter. Scripture underscores the importance of caring for those in need.
In Isaiah 58, God articulates through His prophet the criteria for true Sabbath observance, emphasizing the care of people facing hardships: “Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen: to loose the chains of injustice and untie the cords of the yoke, to set the oppressed free and break every yoke? Is it not to share your food with the hungry and to provide the poor wanderer with shelter—when you see the naked, to clothe them, and not to turn away from your own flesh and blood?” Isaiah 58:6-7.
This passage makes it clear that God hates injustice and oppression, while He values solidarity and generosity.
At the beginning of Jesus’ ministry, we find Him in the synagogue on the Sabbath, reading these words: “The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to set the oppressed free, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor,” Luke 4:18-19.
Notice that Jesus’ ministry addressed both spiritual and physical needs. These two aspects of restoration must go hand in hand for a ministry to be truly impactful.
Ellen G. White, in Welfare Ministry, emphasizes this point: “By our churches, there is a work to be done of which many have little idea—a work as yet almost untouched … Some believe that if they simply give money to [charitable] efforts, they have fulfilled their obligation, but this is a misconception. While monetary donations are important, they cannot replace the value of personal ministry. It is right to contribute financially, but personal service according to one’s abilities and opportunities is required of all.”
As we reflect on these words, I encourage us to discover more effective ways to fulfill the mission entrusted to each of us. Let us not overlook the essential needs of those we seek to serve. Prayerfully ask God for inspiration on how to serve the needs of those around you.
By Jeff Villegas
President
