Free Gift
Why do people keep talking to me about gifts? "So-and-so has the wonderful gift of prayer," Or, "So-and-so is such a talented musician/writer/cook/nurse/businessman." Fill in the blank, depends on the conversation. Even on Facebook, there was a quiz called, "What is God's gift in you?" waiting for me when I flipped open my laptop. Five small questions; such endless possible answers.
I actually really love the word "gift" and all that it implies.
I loved receiving my birthday gifts this year, and I must say, I am an excellent receiver. You've all been around a less-than-excellent receiver— no fun.
Soon I will shop for birthday gifts for my three nephews who all have August birthdays, and I do love to give presents.
I am certainly anxious to use the "Free Gift!" that came packaged with my new sunblock.
But when it comes to bigger, less material gifts, I find myself sometimes surprisingly unwilling to invest the time and the energy to think about, unwrap, and use what God has given me.
My good friend has this quote in her office:
"When I stand before God at the end of my life, I would hope that I would not have a single bit of talent left, and could say 'I used everything you gave me.'"
I love the words, and when I looked it up to see who was quoted, I was expecting a president, a poet, a philosopher. It was said by Erma Bombeck. Erma Bombeck??? A writer.
Okay, God. I hear you.
So I'm at my computer today. And feeling a little bit behind schedule.
Do you acknowledge your God-given gift? I do not, always. Are you afraid of putting yourself out into the universe? I am, often. But I can only assume that God wouldn't have given us gifts to have them sit quietly by. So sing, dance, write, speak, comfort, heal, serve, pray, lead, organize, care, and cook.
Isn't it nice to know that you've been given a gift for no other reason than just because you are YOU? Happy Existence. . . you've received a gift from God.
I actually really love the word "gift" and all that it implies.
I loved receiving my birthday gifts this year, and I must say, I am an excellent receiver. You've all been around a less-than-excellent receiver— no fun.
Soon I will shop for birthday gifts for my three nephews who all have August birthdays, and I do love to give presents.
I am certainly anxious to use the "Free Gift!" that came packaged with my new sunblock.
But when it comes to bigger, less material gifts, I find myself sometimes surprisingly unwilling to invest the time and the energy to think about, unwrap, and use what God has given me.
My good friend has this quote in her office:
"When I stand before God at the end of my life, I would hope that I would not have a single bit of talent left, and could say 'I used everything you gave me.'"
I love the words, and when I looked it up to see who was quoted, I was expecting a president, a poet, a philosopher. It was said by Erma Bombeck. Erma Bombeck??? A writer.
Okay, God. I hear you.
So I'm at my computer today. And feeling a little bit behind schedule.
Do you acknowledge your God-given gift? I do not, always. Are you afraid of putting yourself out into the universe? I am, often. But I can only assume that God wouldn't have given us gifts to have them sit quietly by. So sing, dance, write, speak, comfort, heal, serve, pray, lead, organize, care, and cook.
Isn't it nice to know that you've been given a gift for no other reason than just because you are YOU? Happy Existence. . . you've received a gift from God.
Christy:
This was a beautiful piece. Keep writing, you have wonderful bits of wisdom coming out in your writing. Could you add my sister to your email distribution list:
parrylemon@embarqmail.com
Thank you!
Patty
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Christy,
Right on! We need to read this each day for inspiration as well as a reminder. You are SO ready for the Stew Crew!!!!
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Christy, These entries are beautiful! (and funny too!) Love your stories.See the movie Julie and Julia, you'll get even more inspired! Sorry I haven't visited more often. You, Lisa and Cindy are in my thoughts
Diana
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