Luke 6:38
“Give, and it will be given to you: good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over will be put into your bosom. For with the same measure that you use, it will be measured back to you.”
It is the time of year for gift giving. There are other times, such as birthdays or anniversaries, when gifts are given, but at Christmas it seems hearts are open to give more than at any other time during the year.
Today’s Scripture highlights the truth that the gift giver receives as much or more blessing than the one who receives the gift. Think back to the times when you have given a special gift to a loved one. You almost tingled with excitement and anticipation for the expression of joy you would see on their face when they opened the gift. In essence, your gift is getting to watch others receive your gift!
This will be my first Christmas without my precious wife. Joyce had been the greater part of my life for over 66 years. We gave and received gifts from each other so many times, and much of our delight came from seeing the joy that shone as our gifts were opened.
My heartache is lessened when I realize the gift that Joyce is receiving right now. She is rejoicing in such excitement that words cannot explain it. Reunions with those loved ones that have gone on before far surpass the gifts received here on earth. But the greatest reunion of all is seeing her Savior — our Jesus. What a gift!
May God richly bless you as you bless others by your words and actions!
– – – Pastor Cecil