Typically after a birthday or Christmas, the question most frequently asked is “What did you get?”
Gifts. Receiving them is wonderful. That was my experience during my birthday earlier this year when my husband gave me a beautiful camera. For those who know me, I LOVE taking pictures. It doesn’t have to be a special occasion. I just enjoy capturing special moments. To receive such a well designed camera to fulfill that desire was exciting beyond words.
Giving gifts is wonderful as well, starting with choosing just the right gift for the recipient. Then, there’s the fun of gift wrapping. My husband joked how I turned our bedroom into a workshop prior to Christmas, with gifts, wrapping paper, scotch tape, and ribbon strewn everywhere. Not to mention the non-stop music that was playing while I was in my happy place. The icing on the cake is the great joy I find in watching the recipient open their gifts with glee and then, set forth with enthusiasm of how they’ll use the gift.
This made me think about gifts you and I have been given by our Heavenly Father. Take for example some of my favorites: the gift of being the Painter of Light like Thomas Kinkade, the gift of sculpting Precious Moments given to Sam Butcher, the gift of being the Ambassador of Hope like Gail McWilliams or the gift of singing given to Chris Tomlin. As each one uses their gift, I feel Heaven on earth because it’s evident God is working through them.
Before you say that your gifts don’t fit the likes of those well known folks, let me assure you that it’s not supposed to. “Every good and perfect gift is from above” (James 1:17). Each and every gift given by God is UNIQUE and chosen with great thought specifically for you and I. I’m reminded about some of my friends: the one whose photographs leave me in awe every time I see how beautifully she captures the subject or the one whose makeup artistry leaves a woman feeling like a million bucks or the ones with the vision of how to empower others or the ones who have the tools to parent effectively with wisdom and grace … the list could go on and on. Just writing about them brings tears to my eyes because of the impact of how they use their gift.
As we prepare for 2017, know that you have been given a gift and get excited about it! Think about what your gift is. Once you identify it, ask God how you can use it. It’s not meant to be hidden because of fear or doubt. Then, start doin’ your thang! Our Great Giver is pleased beyond measure when He sees you use the gift He so carefully handpicked for you, His Beloved.
~Joyce
