Conquering Canvassing

1 Corinthians 13:13 (KJV) – And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity.
1 Corinthians 13:13 (NIV) – And now these three remain; faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.

I was brought up on the King James Version and my mum always told us that charity begins at home. She taught me early to volunteer, which also included canvassing for one charitable organization or another for most of my life.

However, I gave it up a couple of years ago. I'd gladly do just about anything else, but canvassing was out. I just was tired of the "no's", the rudeness, the hours spent on "call-backs" that still didn't materialize. Nope, it just wasn't worth it.

Last fall, however, a friend was having a tough time in her campaign, so I relented and offered to at least phone for canvassers. From my calls, two didn't show up for their kits, and no one would do my neighbourhood, sooooooo, I decided to give it one more try.

Knowing I couldn't do it alone, I simply asked, "God please be with me, that I might face whatever is out there with a smile and not be daunted by whatever negative responses I might face." I was really humbled by the very first response: "For you, anything!" and got my first donation. Oh, I had a few "no's", but the evening was really a wonderful experience. In general, most were glad to see me, gave me a donation, and spent several minutes visiting.

Charity does begin at home. It is helped by faith and hope, especially when it is approached with love.

Prayer: Our Father, we thank you for the opportunity to help those in need. May we be ever mindful that when we face those things we fear, it is made easier knowing that you are with us. In Your name we pray. Amen.

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