Isn't it fun to give to one who delights in the gift? Some like surprises... other appreciate a wish list fulfilled. Either way, there is a giver.
Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give,not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. -2 Corinthians 9:7
This passage is talking about tithing, but it really applies to all giving. Let me tell you... there are crankypants out there this season.
Just last night, I almost texted my boys to say "thank you" for always being grateful children, after witnessing a young man...driving age... pitch a ridiculous fit in Kohls. The older teen was feeling that his little brother was getting more than him. His mother not so quietly reminded he had a car to drive and a phone in his pocket, his brother had neither. He walked away from her in a childlike pout. It was not eavesdropping. I was a good distance away, and they were not quiet. Everyone nearby heard the drama.
I felt sad for the him... and for her. It sucked the joy right out of the season. It made other shoppers uncomfortable. It was ugly.
Christmas should never be a comparison of gifts. The best gifts come from the heart. It is not the amount spent, but the heart of the giver. It is why we love the song, "The Little Drummer Boy". He has nothing material to give the wee King, so he offers a song from his heart. Something beautiful and good.
We can choose joy in giving. It isn't about "winning at giving". Some of the best gifts are the ones that meet simple needs. Genuine. Not fancy. Heartfelt.
God's best gift to us... Immanuel... Jesus... "God with us". His presence was the present. His purpose our rescue and adoption into the family. A baby... and a Savior... all in one tiny package wrapped in swaddling clothes.
God delighted in the giving so much that he hung a star in the sky and sent an angel choir as announce the Messiah's birth. He was joyful in the giving... yet our gift meant heaven's loss for a season. With us meant away from the Father. There was sacrifice in the giving, but love covered it in joy. Such a wondrous miracle. God modeled cheerful giving.
Today...I am grateful we can be cheerful givers.
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