We have all heard the saying, “It is better to give than to receive”.

Giving brings joy to the giver.  It brings joy to the receiver.  Everyone wins!

This time of year, giving is stressed so much more.  I’m not what you would call a typical Christmas person, I’m more of a Grinch.  But I do LOVE watching those I love open a gift and get excited over what I thought they would like.

But why is our idea of giving limited to material things, to money?

As I reflect on this year, on my life in general, I wonder if I have given enough.  No, not gifts or money, but other things.

Why can’t we give time?  Why can’t we give love?  Why can’t we give forgiveness?

It seems these things are so much harder to do than opening up our purse or checkbook.

I look at the losses we’ve endured this year.  We’ve lost family members, we’ve lost friends.  I know we would all love to have that one more moment with them.

So why can’t we do that now?  Why can’t we give our time to our families, friends, to those we love?  Why does it take losing them to wish we could give more time to them?

Why can’t we offer love to those who are hurting, who are lonely, who may not have someone to love them?  Sometimes, we take for granted that we have that spouse, parent, brother or sister that loves us.  Not all have that.  Sometimes, all someone needs is an act of kindness to show the world that we have God’s love in us.

This next one may hurt.  It may step on some toes.  (Mine for a FACT)

Why can’t we give forgiveness?

You may say the hurt is too great.  You may say that it’s not worth it.  Hmmm…aren’t we glad Jesus didn’t say the same thing?

Jesus FREELY gave forgiveness to us.  Unconditional forgiveness.  Not only forgiveness, but continued to love us as well.

So why can’t we give forgiveness as well? 

This is the season of giving.  So instead of worrying about how to give the material things, instead of worrying about picking out the right gift, let’s move on to giving the things that matter the most.

Because it truly is better to give than to receive.

Until next time…