Apr 21 2008
Oprah’s Big Give? or Big Whine?
I don’t know if anyone else watched Oprah’s Big Give. I thought the concept was pretty cool even though Oprah’s theology scares me. But, I’ll give her credit for trying to encourage people to give and give big. She should be commended for that.
I watched several of the episodes of this “reality TV” show. A lot of it had to be staged because the cameras were always there to film those who were being called. But it is great that many celebrities have giving hearts. It is great that America gave so much during Idol Gives Back. I think the concept for giving on Oprah’s Big Give was great.
My only problem was with the contestants. They were encouraged to give away money, time, etc… every week. The motto was “Give Big or Go Home.” Each week a panel of judges decided who was worthy of staying another week. The contestants didn’t know that the winner would get $1 million! But they competed anyway. That was my rub. It appeared to be about “look at me,” “look what a good person I am.” There didn’t appear to be a real attitude of giving just to give. It was a game. Last night all three contestants whined about the other people. They were constantly complaining and bickering. Kind of took the fun out of giving! The winner whined the least and I’m glad given the choices he won but something about this show just brought out the worst in people rather than a giving attitude.
I started thinking about this in relation to the church. I can’t tell you how many times I have seen people give in the church and they didn’t want anyone to know. Yes, I have seen selfish people too, in fact I’ve been guilty. But for the most part I’ve encountered people who give of their time, talents, and money to help others out. I see that on a weekly basis at our new church. We are barely 1 1/2 old. People get up early to set up and take down every week so we can worship. I don’t hear complaining and whining. I see people who are eager to give and give big.
Check out what Canadians think about the Big Give here.
What do you think?
2 responses so far
I agree, Kevin. The needy will benefit any way about it, but the true rewards of giving are lost in Oprah’s show, at least by those doing the “Giving”.
I seem to remember Jesus addressing this issue as well . . .
Matthew 6:2-4
So when you give to the needy, do not announce it with trumpets, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and on the streets, to be honored by men. I tell you the truth, they have received their reward in full. But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your giving may be in secret.
Darryl
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I was disappointed in the recent episode where the drama between the team got more TV time then the needy. I think the concept is cool, of course drama sells so they edit what they want. But Like I said on my blog last Wednesday she’s tapped into something the church seems to struggle with….giving. Most churches can barely pay their bills, they survive not thrive…why…because normally the vision is small and no one sees a reason to give. Anyway…I’m chasing a rabbit. Decent show.
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