Gift Givers
Finally, all of you, be like-minded, be sympathetic, love one another, be compassionate and humble. 1 Peter 3:8
You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love. For the entire law is fulfilled in keeping this one command: “Love your neighbor as yourself.” Galatians 5:13-14
INSIGHT
Christmas causes anxiety to well up inside me. Why? Because I’m a horrible gift-giver. I tend to pull my hair out thinking of what to put underneath the Christmas tree for my loved ones. Most holidays I’ll walk around Target like a lost puppy, overwhelmed by the pressure of choosing the ideal gift. After hours of going back and forth over items, I throw up the white flag of surrender and pick up a gift card on my way to the checkout line. Now, some of you will argue that there is nothing wrong with gift cards. After all, the person who receives it can spend it on something they want. But, if you ask me, gift cards are playing it safe.
Good gift-givers put thought behind their presents. Throughout the year, they are intentional. They take the time to notice and observe. They make mental notes of the things that interest you or bring a smile to your face. They put this knowledge to work into the item they wrap up and give to the person they care about.
Our God is the ultimate gift giver. He’s intentional about the unique way He pursues each one of us. He knew exactly what we needed and how to restore our relationship. Jesus presented us with the greatest gift ever given: life and freedom. Since we are called to be image-bearers, selflessness should define us at our core. We reflect His heart when we invest and encourage.
Yet, often in life, we forget that God wired us to be gift-givers. Instead, we get so wrapped up in our own little world that we lose sight of all that is taking place around us. The person who is hurting and in pain goes unnoticed. The needs of others never get met. The kind words never get spoken. We allow the opportunities God presents to us to make an impact and move into relationships with others to pass us by.
Today, look outside yourself. Pay attention, because someone needs a gift that only you can give today. It might be a listening ear, a shoulder to cry on, or just a warm smile. The only way that gift can be given is if you are present.
REFLECTION
Who needs to hear a word of encouragement or praise today? Why does this person come to your mind?
Where can you bring value to someone else by putting his or her needs above your own?
Who are you investing in? How can you speak into their life and bring out the strengths that they don’t see?
PRAYER
God, I am often so wrapped up in my own little world that I miss what You are doing around me. Opportunities to be Your hands and feet in this world get missed. Give me eyes to see those that are hurting and in pain. Allow me to notice where I can be a blessing for someone else. Rather than rushing around today, may I slow down long enough to notice these simple opportunities to bring hope, love, and encouragement to others. In Your name, Jesus. Amen.