Tote Bags

Since when did making a gift involve receiving a tote bag?

Even though I began my working life as a fundraiser for public television, the group famous for offering people things for their support, the trend of gifts for gifts is troubling. The fault lies not only with those organizations that feel such tokens get people to give, rather than their noble purpose, but also with the donors who expect something more than the joy of giving to an organization doing good work.

Seeking something in return for gifts is nothing new. Non-profits have long had to create giving levels, exclusive events, and glossy publications so donors can be seen and recognized for their generosity. In some cases, the purpose of giving is recognition, not support, or, said another way, support has become a means to an end.

As I looked for something to watch on television recently, I came across a Christian evangelist who, refreshingly, was not asking viewers for financial support. His message about faith, however,  was laced with the same toxic quid pro quo theology: If you believe, God will do this . . . If you turn your life over to God, you will be blessed (aka things will go your way) . . . We’re offering a special today, and for prime real estate in heaven all you need do is . . . you get the point.

I’m not sure God gives tote bags. In fact, I think God believes faith, or the relationship that comes through faith, is the gift.

In a recent discussion group, we were asked to look at our motives. The conversation helped us see the ways we give, the things we do and say, and how, lurking somewhere out of sight, there's often something in it for us. As I looked at my life, I could see many examples of good actions and generous deeds which, when seen honestly, were as much about me as they were about others. Perhaps confronting our need for recognition, preferential seating, or tote bags, we may find a deeper, more satisfactory way to give.