Idol Gives Back

I've only caught a few episodes of American Idol this season.  I did watch it tonight, and I was deeply moved...and it wasn't because of the hilarious Simpsons bit, the really cool Céline Dion duet with Elvis, or because they didn't send anyone home tonight.  It was a night of Idol Gives Back focusing on raising awareness and funds for desperately needy children in Africa and in the United States.  Many famous people lent their celebrity and their talents to the effort, along with the Idol crew.

I really think they did a phenomenal job tonight of representing the need in a real way...maybe better than anything like it I've seen, and I've seen a lot of videos and appeals designed to tug at the heart strings.  Sure, there may be a certain irony in a reality show about making people famous taking on this focus, and in such a big way.  Along with millions of viewers, I was still very entertained...but I'm writing this blog because, as I said, it moved me deeply.  So I've really got to say, "Way to go!"  I think it's incredibly cool, and, more than that, it's raising a lot of money for the cause.

I was so moved by the young African boy who works hard to be the "father" because his parents are both dead and he's the only one there to take care of his brothers and sisters.  I fought the tears.  I felt so broken-hearted for the hungy, sick, and dying, who have no choice because they don't have anything close to what we have.  It's staggering to me every time, and I want it to sink in deeply, that what I spend to satisfy a craving could save a child's life.  I'll stop there because I'm sure I'm preaching to the choir, and we know we have it really, really good.

It's amazing what happens when someone makes a determination with their life to make a difference.  Pastor Rob challenges us in this way, teaching us to give and give...not because RVC needs your money, but because we can use it to dramatically impact the world.  For us, the tithe should be just the starting point.  And let's face it, we really could live on less -- we just don't have to.  The principle we need to let sink thoroughly into us is that we, our stuff, our time, and our money should be resouces dedicated to demonstrating God's love on the earth and serving faithfully and consistently to carry out His work.  Our lives offer a great opportunity, and a great resource to bring the opportunity of life to others.

Watching Idol Gives Back, I hurt over kids who need food and medicine just to live.  And I hurt because I want them to know Jesus, Who gives full and eternal life.  I know God hurts for them far more than I am capable of, and I'm quite certain my very fortunate situation is not because I'm more deserving.  I know that I have been entrusted with much, and I have a part to play.  That doesn't mean that it's my job to feed the world, but I am responsible for the determination of my own life, as you are for yours.

If you saw the show tonight and were moved as I was, and maybe even called in to make a donation, I think that's a good thing.  I may blog again to talk more about that, but I'd like to give you a link to a particular organization I love that provides food, medicine, education, and the love of Jesus to children in need throughout the world.  I invite you to join me in sponsoring children through Compassion International.  This is one of many ways to give, but it's a really great way!  Please visit compassion.com for more information.

Comments

[Lisa]

That's awesome. I sponsored a little boy from the Dominican Republic for years. One day I got a letter saying he no longer needed sponsorship. It was very rewarding when I received letters and pictures from him over the years. Thanks for letting people know about Compassion.

[Nancy]

You can't really get a feel for how difficult life is in Africa for the children unless you've been there. I'm not saying that in a bragging sort of way, it's just that when I saw what the conditions were really like I was overwhelmed with grief. And, when I commented on the gravity of the situation to Dr. Beyda from the medical mission team he said, "oh, this is nothing compared to some other places I've been." So yes, Compassion International is a terrific way to make a difference in a child's life. Children's Cup is another great organization that is helping kids in southern Africa. Both do fabulous work. I didn't see "Idol" but kudos to them for their efforts.

[Kristin Andren]

I love the heart and vision of Compassion International! Let's have a Compassion Sunday and let the whole church know about it! I will volunteer to run the table! :)
ps. Pastor Anthony already knows my great idea!

[Christine Titus]

While I think it's great that we can help other countries we shouldn't forget the many American children who need our help and support as well. Please keep in your prayers the reservations in the U.S. of which many have conditions no better than that of third world countries. I have been there and I have seen the disturbing conditions in which the Native American people live. The segment on the children of the Appalachian Mountains probably isn't as compelling on the segment on Africa but I hope I can do my part to help those who are close to me geographically as well as those around the globe.

[Jen]

I didn't watch American Idol, but I agree that they did a good thing in raising money for and bringing light to the poverty in Africa. We have a responsibility to do our best to make this world a better place. I think that is especially true for us being so blessed and living in a land of plenty. I was with Nancy and the rest of the team in Africa. There is no way to describe it. I'd encourage anybody to go on a mission trip and serve in a third world country. It leaves a mark on your heart like nothing else can. It also makes giving more meaningful when you know the huge impact the money you give makes. Compassion International or Children's Cup are both organizations that can help you change the world. The Children's Cup website is www.childrenscup.org. This week I was talking with Melanie Buchanan about the children's tithes in Kid Zone Jr. I believe that we are going to begin donating that money to Children's Cup... so now our 4 and 5 year olds will be changing the world too! How exciting is that?!