A message from Jeremy Rensford, Chair of Greater Shepparton Ministers’ Association
LAST year I wrote an article on the wonderful generosity of our local community, and some tips on how to be wise with our giving. So, it was no surprise when The Adviser had an article in December citing Shepparton as one of the ten most generous cities in Australia. It does frustrate me when some are quick to put down this wonderful place and its people, and good news stories like these need to be celebrated.
The Christian faith certainly is one where giving is central to its beliefs. Jesus came to this world, and with him and his followers, a radical new identification with the poor and powerless. Through the generosity of the early church, many were given identity, dignity and hope – for them, not a restoration of these things, but a first experience.
And with this movement, 2,000 years later, we see the fruit of this (at the time) radical mindset that all are created equal and are worthy of others’ help. Christianity of course can’t claim ownership of generosity, many are generous, no matter what their beliefs, however Christianity does sit comfortably in history as a culture changing force in this area.
Lastly, an encouraging word from the Bible – “The generous will themselves be blessed, for they share their food with the poor.” (Proverbs 14:21)
