In her wonderful book The Writing Life, Annie Dillard offers would-be authors the following advice:
One of the things I know about writing is this: Spend it all, shoot it, play it, lose it all, right away, every time. Do not hoard what seems good for a later time in the book or for another book: give it all, give it now . . . Something more will arise for later, something better. These things fill from behind, from beneath, like well water.
With a bit of editing, Dillard’s words stand as wise counsel for givers, would-be and those who say they want to be more generous. Here’s my paraphrase (with hope that Annie would approve):
One of the things I know about money is this: Spend it all, shoot it, play it, lose it all, right away, every time. Do not hoard what seems good for a later time in life or for another season: give it all, give it now . . . Something more will arise for later, something better. These things fill from behind, from beneath, like well water.
Imagine our churches, our communities, our world if God followers were to live and give as Dillard’s re-worked words encourage. The possibilities more than commend the giving life, or so I hope you agree.
I am so blessed to work with some families who have resolved to “give it all”, give their entire net worth away in their lifetime. God steps into those radical plans in incredible ways! One man told me that when he looks around the world today, he cannot imagine not throwing everything he has I bring Glory to God right now.
As I say to people who stick up their noses to fundraising, there’s no better work thanks to the wonderful people we meet. You’ve just described that experience. Isn’t it great!
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