Short Thought continued.....

Giving and Receiving

This morning was a home-cleaning morning and, if I’m honest, it wasn’t what I wanted to be doing. 

As I spent precious time tidying and cleaning, my mind drifted towards trying to see these chores through a different perspective: what if a well-ordered, clean home is my gift to my family?

Well, that changed my heart and attitude towards why and what I was doing, and how I was doing it!

Rather than it being a chore, it became a gift which I wanted to give to those whom I love;

I wanted to bless them with a gift from my heart.

At times we can find it difficult to give to others and that’s OK: 

after all we are human and we can become weary or disconcerted. 

When this happens we need to go to Jesus Christ to receive afresh from Him.

‘The Lord Jesus himself said “It is more blessed to give than to receive.”’

(Acts 20:35 NIV)

Jesus gives Himself to us each moment of every day. He gives willingly, sacrificially and unconditionally. 

His gifts to us are extravagant, priceless and in plentiful abundance.

He gives us His love, His mercy, His grace, His comfort, His guidance, His presence…. Himself.

He never withholds such gifts. He is Our Giver.

Jesus also gives to us through others.  Sometimes we are aware and appreciative of such gifts which can

be wrapped up in all sorts of unexpected ways.  Other times we may miss seeing or receiving

what is being offered or perhaps we push it away ungratefully.

Recently my husband wanted to spontaneously take me to London; he had a gift in mind and it needed to be given on a specific day.  I had already been to London several times during the week and another trip was not what I had in mind for the weekend.  I was tired; it was cold… but… I went.  I’m glad I did!

I received so much – time with my loving husband, fun and laughter, inspiration and refreshment.  I learnt that sometimes I need to embrace the gift, which someone is trying to give me, in order to truly receive it.

So, is there a change of perspective, an attitude of your heart that needs 

to change before you can either truly give, or truly receive a gift?

How have you closed yourself off from giving or receiving somethingthat Jesus has in store for you?

Throughout this week be open to Jesus giving gifts to you. Receive and embrace them with a thankful heart.

‘Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift!’

(2 Corinthians 9:15 NIV)

Posted 27/1/16