Daily Worship

The Joy of Giving

Rachel August 02, 2016 0 0

James 1: 17-18

Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.  He chose to give us birth through the word of truth; that we might be a kind of firstfruits of all he created.

Acts 20: 35
'It is more blessed to give than to receive.'
 

Who among has not known the delight in giving to another; a gift that brings gladness to their soul?  It doesn’t need to be an elaborate or an expensive gift, just a simple home-made offering- the soul purpose in the gifting is to bring joy.  The gift that is that little something, not bottled in a factory; something that did not roll off a production line; something made by your own hand.

Lord, to see the smile and delight my offering brought to my friend. 
Wrinkly and crinkly, yet received with such grace and gratitude.
It was imperfect, flawed even, but it was made with love,
I smiled at the crinkles and wrinkles… 
I was doing my best,
these mistakes could not rob me of the joyful anticipation of giving to my friend.
I marvel at the gifts we have received from you,
amazed that You find such pleasure in giving to us. 
May our generosity extend beyond the boundaries of those near and dear to us. 
May our generosity flow into the lives of others bringing them joy. 
May we give without counting the cost,
may we lay aside our judgements of the deservedness of others
and may we give and share with joy from the creativity you have gifted us.

Amen.