Last Day of Doing Good for 2020 (Dec. 31st, 2020)
"Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have,
for such sacrifices are pleasing to God."
Hebrews 13:16, ESV
The four of our children helping the Salvation Army with bell ringing last year. Sophia is the one holding the bell.
This is the time of the year where we may be thinking about finishing things before year-end. At most non-profits this is the busy season, or so we hope. In the U.S., non-profit organizations receive a large percentage of donations in December. According to Charity Navigator 31% of all giving occurs in December and 12% comes in the last three days of the year! These donations are very much needed, especially this year – and not just for Daystar. A friend who volunteers with Salvation Army let me know that they are having trouble finding bell ringers, and yet the need for the services Salvation Army offers is growing.
This year has impacted so many people financially, many here in the U.S. and even more so in Africa (where in most countries there is not a government safety net). With around 2 million having lost jobs in Kenya, many of our Daystar University families have been affected. Daystar itself is still struggling, having made many financial adjustments, laying off part-time staff members, salary cuts for full-time staff and faculty, and other cost-savings and new income generating ideas.
With so much need around the world, non-profit work is so important. Please consider supporting your favorite non-profit, missionary or school. Not only should we be generous and give sacrificially, we should also teach/model this for our children/grandchildren. Our 12 year-old daughter Sophia is raising funds for missions. She really wants to help people who are struggling – she told me that because God has blessed us, we should bless others (she is also excited that mom and dad are matching whatever she raises/gives).
So, here is to finishing 2020 strong: let’s give, because God has given to us, let’s help those who are in need, and maybe let’s go ring a bell for a good cause.
Blessings for a safe and hopeful new year!
Alan
Executive Director, Daystar U.S.