It has been 12 years since I have written about money in a Monday Memo. Yes, I have written about the needs of others, but it has been 12 years since I have written to apprise readers of my personal needs. I write this week to talk about my faith journey and to solicit your prayers and your contributions toward that end.
I was mentored in fundraising by a wonderful Christian brother who is still active in the field. He told me once, "John, people need to give more than you need to receive. Don't ever apologize for giving people that opportunity." When I asked for explanation, Bill responded, "If someone gives you $100 what do you have?" I thought it a trick question, but finally answered, "$100."' He said, "Correct. But what do they have?" I shot back, "$100 less!" He said, "No, they have the potential for a 30-, 60- or 100-fold increase if God's word is true. Don't promise a return - that's up to God - but know that God will provide one when they give!"
I have applied that truth throughout the years and seen it be true. Today, I am
providing an opportunity for you to know that I need your help and support if I am to continue my faith work. Today I wrote an update on a young girl named Deborah who I am helping in Kenya. She is not the only one, but her story came in this week and I thought I would share it. I am attaching the before and after pictures of Deborah. I want to keep helping her and children like her - and I will do so - but I need your help.
I have written 682 Monday Memos and given them all away for 13 years. I have written daily devotionals for many years and given them away. I have met with thousands of people about purpose, some of whom have paid but most of whom have not. I've done seminars and workshops free of charge. I have started a publishing company, and already people with worthy stories but limited resources are seeking my help - and I am glad to give it! I have given away books and expertise, and I am happy to do that too - and will continue to do so until I draw my last breath. I have launched radio and television and, by most accounts, it has been helpful to others.
Yet my strategy to work to earn my wages while doing a whole lot outside of my work has depleted my resources. My attempts to establish purpose centers in Kenya have not immediately paid off. Promises were made that were not kept or fulfilled. I understand that this is part of the risk of faith and I have few regrets. What I do regret, however, is that I have deprived my followers of two things: an understanding of the price I have paid to provide what I do every day, and the opportunity to contribute to me personally as I do that work.
I am asking you today to consider the purpose work I have done and then make an immediate or year-end contribution to help me both recover the seed I have already sown and meet my future needs. I have established a link on PayPal that is specifically for my personal support. I will remind readers that it is there every week. Tax-deductible checks can still be sent to PurposeQuest, PO Box 8882, Pittsburgh, PA 15221-0882. Perhaps you know of other organizations or individuals who would be interested to invest in me and my work; I would appreciate the introduction.
I love what I do and love the people among whom I do it! I know I have a lot of ideas and must work to curb my creative expressions to be more responsible and reasonable as I invest my limited time and energy into what I do. I thank you for reading and following my work over the years. If nothing else, please pray that God's work of purpose will continue to flow through me, and thank Him for the opportunities and provision He has already released for the work He has assigned me to do. Thank you and God bless you.
Comments