Gifts

In our home study group we had a shower one evening for a couple expecting their second child. A new baby is, of course, a joy and gift to all. As the ribbons and wrappings piled up, the young son of our hostess took one of the bows and stuck it on his head, announcing that he was a gift. Pleased with himself, he soon expanded on this theme. Collecting many bows, he walked behind the chairs, anointing the head of each guest with a bow and pronouncing them a gift, also: "you're a gift, and you're a gift, and you're a gift." His mother was getting a little uncomfortable with this, but it seemed to me that this 6 year old was demonstrating the wisdom usually found in only the very young and the very old. Our heads adorned in ribbons, the wrappings and trappings of gifts, served as a tender reminder of something we often forget. We are all gifts to each other.

Acts 2.46 - They worshipped regularly together at the Temple...and met in small groups in the homes.

Psalm 127.3 - Children are a gift from God; they are his reward.

Matthew 10.25 - O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, thank you for hiding the truth from those who think themselves so wise, and for revealing it to little children.

1 Corinthians 12.4 - Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit.

1 Peter 4.10 - God has given each of you some special abilities; be sure to use them to help each other, passing on to others God's many kinds of blessings.

Ephesians 4.11 - And his gifts were that some should be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, some pastors and teachers, for the equipment of the saints, for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ.

2 Corinthians 9.11 - God will give you much so that you can give away much, and when you take your gifts to those who need them, they will break out into thanksgiving and praise to God for your help.

Romans 1.12 - Then, too, I need your help, for I want not only to share my faith with you but to be encouraged by yours: each of us will be a blessing to the other.

Philemon 1.7 - I myself have gained much joy and comfort from your love, because your kindness has so often refreshed the hearts of God's people.

Ephesians 4.16 - Under his direction the whole body is fitted together perfectly, and each part in its own special way helps the other parts, so that the whole body is healthy, and growing, and full of love.

Romans 12.5,10 - We belong to each other, and each needs all the others. Love one another in brotherly affection and take delight in honoring each other.

1 Corinthians 12.27 - All of you together are the one body of Christ, and each of you is a separate and necessary part of it.

Ephesians 1.11 - Because of what Christ has done, we have become gifts to God that he delights in.

2 Corinthians 9.15 - Thank God for his Son - his gift too wonderful for words.