Supporting internationally vs locally

I have heard many thoughts of Americans supporting international causes through the years both supportive and non supportive.  Recently in an article that featured GROW Africa's international efforts "Cape resident inspired to GROW Africa" a comment from a reader came across that suggested that we in America have more than enough need to support local efforts and ignore issues abroad.  I don't disagree but do have some thoughts on the matter.

Yes, here locally we have many suffering poverty, as well as emotional and physical challenges that need help.  My first thoughts can be summed up in a book I read called "Holy Discontent" by Bill Hybels.  The synopsis of the book speaks on whether it is social injustice, AIDS, bad preaching, or wrecked marriages, what breaks the heart of someone who loves God most likely breaks God’s heart too—and it is often these “firestorms of frustration” that God will use to enlist you in setting what is wrong in this world right.

I believe that God plants a "Holy Discontent" on our heart for his purpose.  Some may be to make a difference locally and some may be abroad.  If everyone were to take action and do something about what breaks your heart, the world would be a changed place. 

I know the economy has placed many locally in a high stress, financially challenged state but if each of us did what we can whether it is donating $10 a month or $10,000 a month to make a difference in what your heart bleeds for...we can change the world, one person at a time.  Each of us are not called to change the entire world, only what emotionally or morally charges us to action.

Start today, send money to a charity that touches your heart, sign up to serve in an area that helps someone that satisfies that need to "fuel the fire that ignites you".  Don't wait another day, like Nike says "Just Do It" and remember "If you think you are too small to make a difference in this world, you have never been in a room with a mosquito" African Proverb.

Be the mosquito!