In Luke 10:30-37, Jesus paints a crystal clear picture that God wants us to help people wherever they are. Samaritan's Purse has followed the command to "go and do likewise" for over 40 years.
The mission of Samaritan's Purse is to first meet the physical needs of people in crisis, whether it's because of natural disaster, war, poverty, disease, or famine. Alongside that care, the organization shares the love of God.
When I was in the youth group growing up, the song, "People to People" was popular. The lyrics grabbed my heart and my attention.
How do you share the love of Jesus with a lonely man? How do you tell a hungry man about the Bread of Life? People who know go to people who need to know Jesus.
The song went on to say, basically, that you have to meet the physical, emotional, and mental needs of hurting people before they can hear your message about meeting their spiritual needs. That has always resonated with -- it makes perfect sense.
Samaritan's Purse is a charity that is important to me, because they get that idea. They don't walk into a neighborhood devasted by a natural disaster and say, "You need Jesus," before walking away, leaving that neighborhood in the same shambles. Their volunteers step up to clearing debris, rebuilding homes, providing meals, and whatever is needed. They model God's love long before they discuss it.
Several years ago, my mom suggested that, instead of exchanging Christmas gifts among the adults in the family, we each make a donation to a charity in the name of the others. My choice has been Samaritan's Purse, because I believe so strongly in their mission. I've donated to children's ministries, ministries for veterans and wounded warriors as well as feeding and nutrition programs. Along with that, I've packed boxes for Operation Christmas Child, which is always a lot of fun.
With Valentine's Day turning our thoughts to love this week, it seems like the perfect time to think about sharing the greatest love, that of our Father God, with those who need to hear it most.
What charity do you feel most strongly about supporting?