There is a sacred privilege that comes with being a writer. You have the opportunity to tell stories that can move people—not just to tears, but to action.

That is what Jennifer did the other day. Did you read, “What It Really Means to Have Compassion”? Please do.

I shared it and tagged a few friends. One of them—the one with the golden hair and heart—said this in response, “What better friend than one who makes you miserably uncomfortable with your comfort?” (<===Click to Tweet).

Do you ever avoid reading certain things because you know you will most likely be convicted? Once you are aware then you are responsible to do something. You become miserably uncomfortable with your comfort.

It’d be “easier” to put your head in the sand, but then you would be dirty.

O God, clean our hearts—a good scrubbing on the inside—so that we gleam with your heart for the world.

When I read Radical: Taking Back Your Faith from the American Dream by David Platt and Kisses from Katie: A Story of Relentless Love and Redemption by Katie Davis, I felt uncomfortable. I had heard and now I was responsible to act, somehow.

Swirling Struggle

Over hot beverages with dear friends, I tried to articulate the inner struggle that was stirred up from the themes of these books.

I felt convicted.

On one hand I felt guilty for living in America and freely enjoying coffee and conversations in comfort. No hungry belly, horrible disease or persecution threatened my leisurely outing. On the other hand God had allowed me to live here in one of the richest countries in the world, for some reason.

I felt conflicted.

These feelings swirled around, deep down—damned up by distraction and emotional overload. I felt stuck, uncertain of how to release life-giving water to those perishing. But the waters kept swirling, threatening to leave me seasick if I did not do something.

The internal conflict swelled and I had to let out some water or go under.

So I started small—maybe because I am a small town girl. Satan hissed, You are “small time”. Your small change won’t make a difference.

But I went forward anyway.

The water broke through the barrier and Extension 26 was birthed.

Riches Poured Out

Maybe He placed me in this rich country so I can do small things to help the big world—one step at a time, one post at a time, one purchase at a time, one prayer at a time? (<===Click to Tweet)

Instruct those who are rich in this present world not to be conceited or to fix their hope on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who richly supplies us with all things to enjoy. Instruct them to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share, storing up for themselves the treasure of a good foundation for the future, so that they may take hold of that which is life indeed.” –1 Timothy 6:17-19

Instead of demonstrating contempt for these riches, let’s use them to comfort others. May our conviction lead us to compassion as we extend an arm, a word, an act to give generously. We are not justified by our works but they are an extension of our love for Jesus and His love for all.

We have so that we can give.

Everything in heaven and earth is His, therefore, let’s be wise and faithful stewards (see 1 Chronicles 29:11-13 and 1 Corinthians 4:2)

Small Step Forward

Do you ever feel guilty for living in such a rich country? Do you ever feel bad eating a huge meal, knowing that others are going without? Do you want to make a difference but aren’t sure how?

My husband helps curb my guilt by reminding me that we are only responsible to act as God leads. We don’t have to save the world or be all things to all people—Jesus already did that and is that—but we do have the opportunity and privilege to pray, give and advocate as He directs our steps.

My steps were directed to the Fair Trade Friday Club, a ministry of Mercy House founded by Kristen Welch.

Fair Trade Friday Club is a “monthly membership club that delivers high quality fair traded items to your door. The items in the box are fairly traded and provide employment to women all over the world. Plus, they are really cute! We currently have multiple monthly options: our original (and very popular) Fair Trade Friday box—this include 3-4 surprise items (think stylish accessories, organic soap, coffee, etc); our next option is a one-time box to try out as a trial or give as a gift; and finally, our brand new option: Earring of the Month. 100% of the proceeds from each product go toward the empowerment of impoverished women as an avenue to introduce them to the Gospel.”

We are so thankful for this partnership. Our hearts align and our missions align. Fair Trade Friday purchases JOYN products – each one made some of the most marginalized and oppressed people in the world – individuals with leprosy, disability, those who have grown up begging on the streets, former prostitutes, former addicts and your purchase employs at least 70 of our artisans with every order.” -Melody, Joyn Founder, India

On Monday you saw a sneak peak of the necklace that I received as part of my Fair Trade Friday box.

Getting my box of fair trade products was one of the best mail days ever. Knowing that these items are feeding and clothing women, practically and spiritually, made my heart swell with joy.

You can also shop for Fair Trade products like the one pictured above. When I saw this shirt I knew I wanted one right away. First of all they are lovely in color, design and message. I would wear this shirt everyday if I could. It is comfy, stylish and a great conversation piece.

It reminds me that even our small “yes” can have a big impact as we entrust Him to multiply our offerings.

May we empty our full hands so that empty hands can be filled.

May we give freely so that she can freely live.

May we let go of what holds us back so that we can lift burdens from her back.

May we say “yes” to helping and “no” to hurting.

May we speak on behalf of the weak.

May we wear her handiwork so that in peace she can sleep.

May we be moved from tears to action, from fears to compassion.

O God, forgive our distraction and clear our vision to see what we can do out of love for You.”

So, what are you waiting for? Join the Fair Trade Friday Club or Earring of the Month Club. If the clubs are full get on the waiting list so that you don’t miss out.

I’m thanking you for being a Wound Up Woman who is doing good around the globe. Enter below to win a Love Mercy Bracelet. I will announce the winner over on my Facebook Page on Monday.

 

Fair Trade Friday “Love Mercy” Bracelet

P.S. Learn more about Mercy House Kenya and read this moving post by Kristen Welch over on Ann Voskamp’s blog.