Responding to Critical Human Needs
August 1, 2018 by Minner Serovy
“Truly I tell you, just as you did it to one of the least of these who are members of my family, you did it to me.” [Matthew 25:40]
“Doing” for the least is one of the most powerful mandates of Jesus for his followers. “Doing” is the concrete evidence of Christian love. “Doing” is concrete evidence of our gratitude to God for the blessings in our own lives. We don’t just talk the talk. We walk the walk.
When I hear the word “critical,” I tend to move to large, visible, life-threatening needs – natural disasters or human calamity. I am ever grateful and proud of the work Presbyterian Disaster Assistance does on our behalf in those circumstances. They are outstanding!
Those are not, however, more critical than the needs we see every day, and the needs that churches and individuals can address. I confess that I tend to evaluate “critical need” through the filter of what is critical to me. Instead, I need to respond from my blessings to honor what is to what is named by another. I can’t necessarily fix all that is needed. I need to do what I can, and then a little more – a meal, a pair of dry socks, a ride, a visit, a kind word.
Churches and individuals alike have heard me say, “Certainly it is good to have a reserve fund. But the point of the fund is not the size. The point is what mission it allows you to do.” Too many see it as a rainy-day fund, and then are afraid to declare that it is raining. There are critical needs that we could meet now. Have faith that God’s abundance will continue.
The Presbyterian Foundation and its subsidiary New Covenant Trust Company partner with you to understand your goals and objectives and manage your funds. From mutual funds to managed portfolios to permanent endowments, your assets are invested using socially responsible principles and approaches consistent with Presbyterian values. We can also customize an approach to match your particular concerns.
I invite you to explore the investment toolbox and other resources here, and through your Ministry Relations Officer and other staff.
