But, then I realized, giving doesn’t have to cost a dime. Take off that “d” and replace it with a “t” and giving can cost you time instead of a dime.
We have been entrusted with the gift of time. How are you spending it this year?
I will still encourage you and me to give $26 (or whatever amount God lays on your heart) by the 26th of each month. But I will also encourage you to consider giving 26 minutes (or whatever length of time God lays on your heart) to an organization/ministry each month. You can give of your money or time or both.
Maybe you can give 26 seconds of prayer to the monthly ministry or take some time to write an encouraging note to them? Maybe you could share about the ministry on social media or visit their website to learn a little more about them?
When I started Extension 26 one of my friends decided to sponsor a child through Compassion International. She gives on behalf of the same child monthly and is making an eternal impact on her life in this way.
Extension 26 can look different for everyone, but the point is to give. Whether it is a dime or your time, will you consider growing in the area of giving this year?
I have numerous friends who are sick right now or who have loved ones that are. Often medical emergencies become times of financial hardship. Wouldn’t it be great if money was not an additional burden for those who are stressed by sickness?
This month we are encouraging you to give to those you know who are sick.
Maybe you can take over a meal or send a gift card. Maybe you can offer to clean or just sit with them so their family can have a break.If you are looking for a place to give, would you consider giving to my friend Sara and her daughter? You can read about their story here. In December I attended the funeral for Sara’s husband. It was an incredibly sad yet beautiful service. Jason’s wish was that his wife and daughter would be well cared for in his absence. Things are hard for them financially, with all the medical bills that have accumulated for years, due to Jason’s battle with cancer.
Any amount would be greatly appreciated and prayers are always welcome.
My dear author friend Shelly Beach is facing health concerns as well. Read about it here and consider leaving an encouraging note or scripture for her.
Shelly has been a caregiver to her parents and friends and has written a book to those who care for others. Maybe you are a caregiver or know someone who is? Consider purchasing Precious Lord, Take My Hand: Meditations for Caregivers or Ambushed By Grace: Help & Hope on the Caregiving Journey by Shelly Beach and offer hope today.
Lastly, will you please pray for Kara Tippetts and her family? She is wife, mama and author who will most likely be ushered into the arms of Jesus in the near future. I do not know Kara personally but I have been moved by her words and heart through Ann’s blog, an interview on Focus on the Family and her latest blog posts. I am heading over to purchase Kara’s book The Hardest Peace: Expecting Peace In The Midst of Life’s Hard. Let’s rally around this family and offer them tangible hope today.
Thank you for your support as we give this year. What a joyful honor to share with those in need.
Wound Up Women and Make A Difference Men can do more good around the globe in 2015.
Let’s uplift the sick this month and help relieve their burden.
Love,
Katie
P.S. If you or someone you love is facing cancer consider visiting the Cure Cancer Fast blog for 30 days of devotions to uplift you.
P.S. Last May Extension 26 showcased this giving opportunity (to help fund the Maubane Community Center in South Africa). Lisa-Jo and friends are headed over to South Africa next week to give us all an up-close and personal view of what our giving did!