The Five Dollar Challenge

     I am a cheapskate. For the longest time, I have not kept cash in my wallet because I know that I will spend it and "fritter it away."
     We run a tight ship in the Keffer household. Every dollar counts. But over time, this stingy habit of mine is catching up with me spiritually. I have let too many opportunities to give pass me by, and this takes a toll on a person after a while.
     Inspired by the book Advent Conspiracy, I have decided to keep five $1 bills in my pocket/wallet for the sole purpose of giving them away. Instead of walking past the Salvation Army bell ringer and trying to sneak past him unnoticed, I am setting aside resources to give away. I am now prepared to meet the bell ringer head on with a financial contribution. Every time I have a chance to give toward some other-centered cause, I want to be prepared to give.
     One dollar is not a whole lot of money, I know, but it is the discipline of giving that I want to start in my life. I have been stingy with God's blessings for too long. I need to be more like a waterfall that allows God's blessings to pass through me, rather than a stagnant pond that has no outlet.
     This is inspired by the book, The Advent Conspiracy (McKinley, Seay, and Holder). It is time to move from being simply a consumer of God's grace to a conspirator of God's grace.
     Join with me in this challenge!
     Here is the challenge that I and others in my congregation are taking this week. We will have a new challenge next Sunday.

Advent Conspiracy

Thank you for taking the $5 Dollar Challenge. This week, please keep five $1 bills in your pocket and give them away, as God leads. Practice the art of giving and move consumer to conspirator of God’s grace.

Prayer: “God, you gave it all for me in your son, Jesus Christ. May each dollar that I give away this week teach me how to be a better giver. May every dollar be a blessing to you and those who receive it. In Jesus’ name. Amen.”