Something Old, Something New

Last week-end our community hosted something new.  It was billed as the "Worthy Cause" Rummage Sale.  It all began with a simple Facebook post by a woman who wanted to get rid of things, but didn't want to take the time to mark everything for a rummage sale.  She suggested having a free will offering rummage sale and donating the proceeds to a cause, such as the food pantry or "angel tree" project done at Christmas time.

The next day a second woman jumped on the bandwagon, and helped do the organizing.  A date was set, and location determined.  Then everyone was encouraged to donate and also attend.  As the old saying goes, "One man's junk is another man's treasure".  Such was the case once the day arrived and shoppers began showing up to sort through the vast assortment of items.

The fun part of a rummage sale is realizing what is old to one person becomes something new to another.  Items which have outlived their purpose in one household suddenly receive a new purpose in another.

In the end, the sale realized a profit of over $4,000, which will be split between the Food Pantry and Angel Tree.  The items remaining were boxed up today and will be donated to second hand stores, spreading the benefits of the "Worthy Cause" even further.

When I think about the generous spirit of all those involved, whether it be through donating items for sale or by "purchasing" items with a donation, I find a Biblical principle at work.  In Paul's first letter to Timothy, he ends by encouraging him as follows:

 "Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment.  Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share."

~1 Timothy 6:17-18

 

As I consider the overabundance of "stuff" we enjoy here in the United States of America, I can't help but wonder if we are neglecting our God-given duty to be generous and willing to share.  I realize, too, there are many living within our borders who are also in need.  As an incentive to be more consistent in your generosity, take a look at the next verse:

 

"In this way they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life."

1 Timothy 6:19

 

In case you're wondering, we plan to make the "Worthy Cause Rummage Sale" at least an annual event!