2700% Return on Investment

In 2010, Pastor Brian from Immanuel Reformed Church in Grand Rapids asked his congregation if anyone wanted $10. Many hands went up. Then he said, “If you take this $10, then you need to use it to help someone who has a need.”

And Bob’s hand still was up. So Pastor Brian gave Bob the $10. The next week, Bob reported that in the lobby other people gave him money making his total $110. That week, Bob hung out at Goodwill and paid for people’s purchases who were standing at the cashier without enough money.

Then Pastor Brian gave out another $10. And this has continued for over seven years; every week Pastor Brian gives $10. God multiplies that money. Immanuel members go out and help their friends, neighbors, families, coworkers, and strangers. Each year, the total amount of money given always exceeds $10,000!

In 2017, $14,204 was given away to help people with unpaid medical bills, victims of natural disasters, families affected by suicide, single parents who can’t buy food, people who can’t pay their mortgage or rent, and so many other situations. Most often, these are people who Immanuel members know personally. They are aware of the life difficulties of people around them, bold enough to help, and then tell them that God has not forgotten them but has sent Immanuel to help them. Tears of joy and gratitude are often the response.

There is no other way that $520 returns a 2700% interest rate! God has blessed us with more than we need. We are rich. And so we generously share God’s riches with those who need it.