I recently received the most unexpected gift. A recent staffing change at work had me feeling overwhelmed. I knew I was going to need to pick up part of an additional position. I had a looming project that needed to be completed by Christmas. In desperation, I reached out to a colleague for help.
I was hoping she could help with a couple of the details on the project. We talked through the scope and the challenges. She then offered to do all the heavy lifting. It was the most unexpected gift. I almost cried. Actually, I did later in praise and thanks to God for the generosity of her spirit.
This most generous God who gives seed to the farmer that becomes bread for your meals is more than extravagant with you. He gives you something you can then give away, which grows into full-formed lives, robust in God, wealthy in every way, so that you can be generous in every way, producing with us great praise to God. 12-15 Carrying out this social relief work involves far more than helping meet the bare needs of poor Christians. It also produces abundant and bountiful thanksgivings to God. This relief offering is a prod to live at your very best, showing your gratitude to God by being openly obedient to the plain meaning of the Message of Christ. You show your gratitude through your generous offerings to your needy brothers and sisters, and really toward everyone. Meanwhile, moved by the extravagance of God in your lives, they’ll respond by praying for you in passionate intercession for whatever you need. Thank God for this gift, his gift. No language can praise it enough! (2 Corinthians 9:11-15 MSG).
The best part of this gift is that it inspired me to spread the goodwill to others. I’m not sure what that looks like, yet, but my senses are laser focused for an opportunity. I’m reminding myself that is doesn’t have to elaborate to make an impact. It is more about looking for the opportunities God puts in front of me. Want to join me?
Have you received an unexpected gift? Have you given such a gift? Share your experience here and breathe life and bring hope to others.