I got an email today from PayPal. If you don't know what PayPal is, it is an internet platform for transferring money electronically (probably not its technical definition). It can be used to transfer money for goods bought or sold from web-based companies; ebay immediately comes to mind when thinking about PayPal.
You can also use it like a Western Union where you "wire" money to someone else (except of course here it is "wire-less").
Which brings me back to the email I got today from them.
It was an advertisement about wiring money to people internationally. They specifically mentioned places like India, Mexico, Philippines, and Australia. It immediately brought to my mind two thoughts: first, the global impact of economic migration (people, businesses, money, etc––also keep in mind, I am no economist!).
The second thought was regarding global, gospel missions. I wonder about the impact this might have on international, gospel sending agencies? Instead of sending money to an organization, just send money directly to the person in need?
I recognize this is much more complicated then just "sending money." It involves a wide range of issues, but the email just sparked some thoughts. I have no real conclusions....just thoughts. What do you think?
Here is the link showing you what I am talking about.
PD,
ReplyDeleteThat is very intriguing and could potentially help reduce administrative fees that are generally associated with agencies. However, what might actually drive people away from using it in this way is that they would not be able to get a tax deduction for their gift seeing as tax deductible gifts must go through a 501 (c) 3 and not directly to an individual. While, many don't give for the tax benefit, many do and thus they may be less inclined to give.