There are many wonderful ways to respond to the Savior's call to feed the poor. Many organizations do much good in answering needs around the world. One of the most simplest and cost effective ways, is through a monthly opportunity, known as Fast Offerings. In the Old Testament's book of Malachi 4:8-10 it reads:
8 ¶ Will a man rob God? Yet ye have robbed me. But ye say, Wherein have we robbed thee? In tithes and offerings.
9 Ye are cursed with a curse: for ye have robbed me, even this whole nation.
10 Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith the Lord of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it.
We often think of it just as tithing, but the Lord expects us to do more. However in doing it, he offers an incredible blessings and promises. In a true fast, we abstain from eating two meals in a 24 hour period and offer the equivalent of that cost of food (or more if we choose) as an offering to our Church's Bishop to use in caring for the poor as he sees fit and within guidelines set by the Church. Through coordinated systems, offerings are first used in our local congregation and if there is more than needed, used elsewhere. In some cases, if the needs are greater than donations, the Bishop can use excess fast offerings from other congregations in the needs of his own. It's a beautiful system where you look to your own resources, that of family, and then food and basic necessities. Much good comes from it, and most if not all families at some point are blessed from it, but certainly in giving to others.
A friend of mine, Bishop Dean L. Davies gave a wonderful address in General Conference a few years ago about both the responsibility and blessing of the the Fast, which I've included above.
There are those not of our faith, who are helped as well as donations to the Humanitarian Fund of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints go worldwide, including communities locally who are suffering from disasters and other challenges. Those donations, while separate, also aide in the challenge issued by the Savior and can be made here.
Tomorrow is Fast Sunday, and today I made my donation for fast offerings as well as the Humanitarian Fund in preparation of that day. How grateful I am for both the opportunities and blessings that come from such a sacred opportunity and charge from the Savior to care for the poor. It's not the only way I choose to do it, but it is without question, divinely inspired and a blessing in my life.
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