THE JOY OF GIVING
17th Dec 2014
Christmas is almost upon us and the shops are full of everything that we are meant to buy to make this a season of enjoyment and goodwill. Is that how you see it? Has the season become more of a burden than a joy?
We give gifts because God gave us the best gift we could ever receive - Jesus. He came not only to lay down his life for us but to set an example of a life dedicated to giving. Paul gives us a quotation from the life of Jesus that only appears in Acts 20:35 “...remembering the words of the Lord Jesus himself said, “It is more blessed to give than to receive.”
There is a blessing in giving. Sometimes we focus on the words, “Give and it will be given unto you.” That is true, but it is equally true that when we give we will be blessed. Let us set out to be a blessing to our families and friends. As we select gifts and make things for those we love, let us say in our hearts, may this gift be a blessing and the promise is that as you give you too will be blessed.
Proverbs 11:25 says, “He who refreshes others will himself be refreshed.” As we serve our guests and friends during this festive season, let us do it willingly and with a generous heart. Sometimes it may seem that we are left with all the chores. But if we take hold of this promise we will discover, not weariness or resentment, but that we are refreshed.
Jesus said, “The Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve...” and “I am among you as one who serves.” When we follow the example of Jesus, serving becomes a joy and a privilege.
So we have a choice. Feel burdened and resentful about all that we have to do this Christmas, or give, serve, refresh others and be filled with joy!
by Charles Sibthorpe
