I love to give…especially when I catch the person by surprise! That look of, “umm, me, for me?”
It can be a physical gift, or shouting someone lunch or buying the coffees. Giving doesn’t always have to be about money. It could cost you a smile, some time, or forgoing ‘your rights’ to give to another, a word of encouragement, or even acts of kindness like opening a door for a woman (yes, I still believe in chivalry), giving way or letting someone into the traffic stream. When you sit and think, the list is endless.
When I give I actually get back a whole lot more… joy for one. It always gives me some deep sense of satisfaction.
Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.”
Luke 6:38
Every so often someone catches me out and beats me to it. For years I struggled to be a recipient of lavished gifts or acts of love. I would feel a little awkward and uneasy when someone would, for no particular reason, give generously to me. But I realised that if I didn’t accept the gift it would deny them the joy gained through the act of giving. I’m still taken by surprise, and a little awkward, but I’m learning to say ‘thank you’ and appreciate the moment for us both.
The one that catches me the most is when someone gives of themselves… that act of love, a moment in time, when the hand of friendship is extended and you realise how delightful it is to be welcomed into their circle and considered a friend.
“Anyone who welcomes you welcomes me, and anyone who welcomes me welcomes the one who sent me. Whoever welcomes someone known to be a prophet will receive a prophet’s reward, and whoever welcomes someone known to be righteous will receive a righteous person’s reward. And if anyone gives even a cup of cold water to one of these little ones who is known to be my disciple, truly I tell you, that person will certainly be rewarded.”
Matthew 10:40-42
Very recently I have been made welcomed, experienced unmerited acts of love, acceptance and the hand of friendship… and it was good.
Let us never give up the opportunity to lavish upon others random gifts of kindness and love.
You will be all the better for it.