Pro Bono

Dear reader, 

I’ve been faced with a hard reality lately. 

In my primary demographic of clients, not many of them can pay for the service I offer. 

It’s been heartbreaking, to say the least, when I find someone who needs my help but they can’t cover the cost. 

I’ve been faced with this reality time and time again, it sucks. 

One of my dear friends asked if I did work Pro Bono for those who needed the help the most. And I had to admit I’d never heard the term before. 

We walked and talked about it for a bit, and he shared that businesses would offer Pro Bono work to those who need it the most, and continue charging those who can afford to pay. 

I was faced recently with a choice, I was on a call with a potential lead and we chatted for about 40 minutes, they wanted my help, I explained what I would charge them, and after a bit of calculating and silence I heard

“We definitely won’t be able to do that. I’m so sorry.” 

My stomach dropped. Finally, someone who was aligned with the same mission, but they couldn’t pay. Of course. 

My anger flared up a bit and I tried to stay calm.

“I’m sorry to hear that.” 

“Well, maybe we could hire you down the road, or would you be willing to do this pro bono?”

Instantly I wanted to say, of course. But realistically taking a whole weekend to do free work wasn’t as exciting as it used to be for me. 

I went on a run this morning, and I was lifting this up to God. I told him of my emotions and the reality of the matter,

“I don’t have many paying clients, and if you want me to stay afloat, you need to bring me to the people who can pay.” 

I need to say that serving the kingdom is not a bad investment. Even if the world’s definition of money is not exchanged for your services, the time you give willingly towards kingdom work is not to be disregarded. 

If those around you truly can’t pay you, that’s okay. But if God wants you to still help them, stuff your pride aside and help them. You have nothing to prove. You don’t operate on the same rules the world does. 

Seek first the kingdom of God and all else will be added on to you. 

I’m excited to call them back and offer my services for free.

But God had to change my heart to get me there. 

Sincerely,

Your Fellow Servant

-Mitchell