Kiva

Okay, so we do all this talking about how we want to invest in global initiatives... here is y'alls chance to back that up. Go to Kiva.org

Kiva is a microlending (microfinancing) site which connects people like us to people around the globe who are being proactive in making a living, supporting their families, and trying to break the cycle of poverty.

Here in the grand ole capitalistic society we live in, a monkey could start a business. I say that not to minimize the hard work involved in starting a business.... I am WELL aware of the degree to which "sweat equity" can involve more than just sweat... but I say that to make a point that there are so many resources available to the entrepreneurially-minded here in America. We have: "Start-ups for Dummies" and a slew of literature and step-by-step websites, venture capitalists, small business loans, angel investor groups, government grants, heck.... even friends/family.

But in alot of countries around the world, there are no resources to turn to. That's why we can play a critical role in people's lives who are fighting back underneath the weight of disadvantage and poverty. May we be God's hands to help lighten the load.

"Kiva lets you connect with and loan money to unique small businesses in the developing world. By choosing a business on Kiva.org, you can "sponsor a business" and help the world's working poor make great strides towards economic independence. Throughout the course of the loan (usually 6-12 months), you can receive email journal updates from the business you've sponsored. As loans are repaid, you get your loan money back."

"We partner with organizations all over the world
Kiva partners with existing microfinance institutions. In doing so, we gain access to outstanding entrepreneurs from impoverished communities world-wide. Our partners are experts in choosing qualified borrowers. That said, they are usually short on funds. Through Kiva.org, our partners upload their borrower profiles directly to the site so you can lend to them."

So go to the website: http://www.kiva.org/
Read the stories
Make a difference... it's amazing how far $50 goes in Azerbaijan.

It's HIS money... ask Him what He wants you to do with it? Just a gut feeling that you're not going to hear "hoard it & build a home in Highland Park". No, in fact, I surmise that the conversation might go a bit like this:

US: "Jesus... I love you SO much and want to follow your will for my life. What shall I do?"

Jesus: "You know the commandments: 'Do not commit adultery, do not murder, do not steal, do not give false testimony, honor your father and mother.'"

US: "All these I have kept."

Jesus: "You still lack one thing. Sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me."

US: silence... hmmm, self, whatever does He mean? Surely He can't mean sell my stock, my SUV..... lump.... swallow

See also: Luke 18:18-23 The Story of The Rich Young Ruler

It is the heart matter Jesus is getting to here... he reveals with poignancy the things that we tie our hearts to... which in turn tie us down. I see this not as a legalistic command... but more of a plea from Jesus for us to find life. He desperately wants to rescue us from the empty-ended pursuit of wealth, status, and material possession. I don't think He is saying those things are "bad" in and of themselves... they become "bad" when they are the end-all. Bad for us and bad for others. The more we cling to them the more we stockpile... only to take none of it to the grave. Give it away is Jesus' model and my prayer is that the mentality will increasingly govern my life. Hmmmm... stockpile and take none of it with us. OR give it away & have a stockpile of heavenly treasure awaiting.

I think I'll wait for the treasure.