In a blog post written on 7 October 2010, Seth Godin wrote;
A generous gift comes with no transaction foreseen or anticipated. A gift is a gift, not the beginning of a transaction.
As I considered his wisdom, I reflected on how Christians unknowingly violate this principle much too frequently.
We call it “creating opportunities.”
Often, Christians will do an act that is generous—with strings attached. We have gotten good at justifying this practice. We say; “We just want you to know that we love our community.” But, if we truly love the community—why do we have to tell people to prove it?
We may give away a book—making sure that we have stamped our Church’s address on the inside. But, if we are concerned simply about the Gospel—why does it matter whether or not the receiver knows where it came from?
We may feed the poor—making sure that each person receives a booklet explaining the Gospel. But, if we are truly trying to meet the person’s physical needs—why do we have to shove propaganda in his face?
Now, to be sure you understand—I understand the need to share the Gospel to every Man, Woman, and Child. It is imperative that we share the message that Christ died to pay for our sin and to reject this payment means death and hell.
However, do we do the Gospel injustice when we appear to be baiting people for an opportunity to advertise our cause? Where is the love in this?
Sometimes, we need to be very simple in our desire to generously give to people. No agenda—no missions strategy—just to give because we do genuinely care.