People With Disabilities and Giving
Luke 6:38 (Contemporary English Version)
If you give to others, you will be given a full amount in return. It will be packed down, shaken together, and spilling over into your lap. The way you treat others is the way you will be treated.
Chuck Champeau is a man in his sixties with high functioning mental disabilities. He lives in a group home in Green Bay, WI. He has no family. Chuck works in a sheltered workshop and earns a meager amount from his work. Chuck could choose to spend that money on most anything that would please him. But Chuck made a decision, years ago, to ask one of his caregivers in his group home to call Christian Children’s Fund. They chose a young boy in the Philippines named Ryan. Chuck has been sending money to support Ryan each month. Periodically, Chuck receives a letter from Ryan. He received a letter yesterday telling him that Ryan is ready to graduate from high school. Because of Chuck’s support, Ryan’s schooling, food, and medicine was paid for and the boy is doing very well.
A few years ago, Chuck was privileged to record a CD of him playing hymns on a grand piano. It was the dream of his life. He was so grateful to the Lord for this dream come true. One of the things he wanted us to know was that if he ever made any money from selling copies of this CD, he wanted to send more money to help Ryan in the Philippines.
Chuck belongs to the culture of disabilities and the culture of the poor, among others. He is not expected to pay for too many things. The government provides SSI that covers most all of his living needs. So why should Chuck be giving money to other poor people? Chuck serves the Lord with all of his heart. He reads his Bible, prays and plays the piano for the glory of God.
Chuck has found the joy of giving. God’s promises apply to everyone who gives with the right attitude and motive. The amount given doesn’t matter.
Why should we deprive people with disabilities of the blessings of giving? We can find ways for those who want to give to be blessed. Who will help?
