Gift-giving is a huge thing in our family, in general. Whether that’s for Christmas, for someone’s birthday, or my parents’ anniversary, giving gifts (plus the surprise that should go with it) is always a matter of importance. So much that even when some people don’t have the means to do just that yet (people, as in the non-working members in the family), we find ways.
For instance, my dad asked me and my brother a few days before Christmas if we had already gotten a gift for my mom. But just as I was about to answer, he handed me money just to make sure I could buy them gifts. Funny, we were actually on our way to buy his gift!
A few days later, my mom added to that stash. Our parents actually gave us money so we could share the joy of giving (and I suppose also they, in the joy of receiving.) My parents are awesome.
I think about that and can’t help but be reminded of how similar David must have felt while praying to God in 1 Chronicles 29. This is what he says in verse 14:
“But who am I, and who are my people, that we should be able to give as generously as this? Everything comes from you, and we have given you only what comes from your hand…”
Isn’t God amazing? He gives to us so that we can give to others and ultimately give back to Him.
Personally, looking back at how my 2010 turned out makes me appreciate this truth even more. That when I feel moved to “give” to God out of a thankful heart for all that He’s done—and is going to do—, I quickly remember that what I can give was and will always be supplied by Him. Amazing! And what a wonderful joy it is to know that God adds to that “stash” every single day! (Lamentations 3:22-23)
Happy Post-Holidays! 🙂