You Don’t Need Money to Be Generous: The Power of Inviting Others In

 

Posted on January 13, 2026 by Dan Can

 

Hey friends, Dan Can here—your Spokane-based entrepreneur, insurance guy, real estate investor, and host of The Invested Life.

 

We’re in the heart of the Christmas season (and heading into 2026), a time when generosity feels front and center. Most people immediately think of money—gifts, donations, charitable giving. And yes, financial generosity matters (more on that in a bit). But today, I want to challenge you with this truth: You don’t need money to be generous.

 

The real game-changer? Being generous with invitations—inviting people into your life, your story, your community.

 

Generosity Starts with Opening Your Door

 

As a follower of Jesus, I believe eternal principles never change—no matter what tech or trends come along. The Bible is packed with stories of life-changing invitations:

 

• • Andrew to Peter: “Hey, I found the Messiah—come meet Him.” (John 1:41-42)
  • The woman at the well: After encountering Jesus, she runs back to her town and invites everyone to meet Him too. (John 4)
  • Jesus Himself: Waiting at the well, inviting her into truth and living water that never runs dry.

 

These weren’t grand gestures with cash. They were simple, bold invitations that transformed individuals, families, and entire communities.

 

Think back to your own life. Who invited you in? A coach who believed in you? A friend’s family that welcomed you? Those moments shortened someone’s “runway”—they didn’t have to learn everything the hard way because someone shared wisdom, time, or opportunity.

 

I want to encourage you this Christmas and into 2026: Start inviting people into your life. Initiate. Be the one who says, “Come over,” “Let’s grab coffee,” or “I’d love to hear your story.” You might help someone avoid hitting their head against the wall (I’ve done plenty of that myself—stubbornness is my specialty).

 

The Power of Mentorship and Community

 

Generosity with time and invitation builds empathy. As the saying goes (whether Dr. Seuss or Mr. Rogers), it’s hard to dislike someone once you hear their story.

 

In business, sales, coaching, or parenting—initiate. If you’re leading a team, disciple young people in the marketplace, or mentoring, open your life. Share your failures and successes. Help shorten someone else’s painful learning curve.

 

I’ve run discipleship groups for 20+ years. Some had 1 guy show up, others 14. Close ratio? Not great. But I kept going because one person showing up is worth it. Right now, I’m mentoring five young men hungry for righteousness (our anchor verse: Matthew 5:6—”Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled”).

 

Write this down: Who are 2–3 people you can invite in this week? A teammate, coworker, neighbor, or someone who feels on the outside? Be generous with your time. You never know—you might introduce them to hope, encouragement, or even the Savior.

 

A Personal Story: The Invitation That Changed My Family Tree

 

During the Great Recession (2008–2010-ish), life hit hard. I lost 60% of my income in one month. We had twins, I was coaching rugby, running businesses, and in seminary. As the provider, I was last in line—shelter, food, kids first. Shame and isolation crept in.

 

A mentor invited me to lunch. I tried to cancel (pride + depression = bad combo). He called back laughing: “Danny, you can’t cancel. I was gonna take you to Nordstrom’s and buy you shoes.”

 

We went. He bought me the nicest pair of shoes I’d ever owned—still have them today. I wear them for big moments as a reminder: Someone cares.

 

But the shoes weren’t the biggest gift. Over lunch, he said, “I want to introduce you to a friend in insurance.” That introduction opened the door to representing a Berkshire Hathaway company, launching multiple businesses, and where I am today.

 

One generous invitation changed everything. I’ve paid it forward ever since—opening doors for young men and families in my community.

 

[Image: These classic dress shoes remind me of that day—simple, but meaningful.]

 

Money Matters Too—But It’s Not the Only Way

 

Yes, financial giving is powerful. Tithing and charitable donations show money doesn’t own you. “It’s more blessed to give than to receive” (Acts 20:35, my paraphrase). Generosity with finances brings freedom.

 

But time, wisdom, and invitations? Those are free—and priceless. Investing in others (risk included—I’ve had groups flop) leads to joy. Give your life away to find it.

 

Your Law of 72 Challenge

 

Within 72 hours:

 

• • Write down 1–3 (or up to 12) people to initiate with.
  • Invite them—coffee, a call, your home.
  • Mentor if you can. Be present. People over phones/socials.

 

If this encouraged you, forward this post or the podcast episode to someone who needs an invitation.

 

Dan Can listeners: Love well and do good.

 

Need insurance in Spokane (auto, home, motorcycle, life)? Visit dancanspokane.com. Interested in real estate investing? Check investwithdancan.com.

 

What’s one invitation you’ll make this week? Drop it in the comments—I’d love to cheer you on!

 

Stay invested in what matters, Dan Can The Invested Life

 

If you believe in loving what you do and doing what you love, you’re in the right place.

 

Protect. Provide. Promote.

 

https://investwithdancan.com/  https://wavecapitallending.com/  https://www.bizzybeebookkeeping.com/  https://www.dancanspokane.com/  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcWABX1LXk6wSDfndW4PIAQ/

 

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