Gifts

Emma, my second child has had an ongoing Birthday celebration. We celebrated once before we left for Nana's and Papa Macy's house. She received gifts in the mail from my mother. Members at our church gave her some gifts. She had a blast. We planned to have a party for her and her friends when we returned to Indiana. And while we were in Colorado, Nana and Papa planned a family party for her. It was New Year's Eve and quiet Emma is very observant. Her aunts, uncles and cousins came over after church services. She asked to speak to Nana. Emma said, "Nana, does Aunt Rachel know it is my birthday party today?" Nana said, "Of course she does sweetheart." Emma said, "Well, I don't think she brought a present for me." Aunt Rachel had forgotten!

Rachel scooted out to the card store and put a $20 in the envelope. All was well in Emma's world. It is interesting that Emma noted the lack of a gift so close to the day we celebrate Jesus' birthday. I have heard that we have to be careful because people want to complain that churches just want money and that God does not care. But, in my reading of the Bible and Jesus' own words, He is as observant as Emma and even more appreciative.

The Bible talks a great deal about our gifts and offerings. He has every right to expects gifts from us whether it is Christmas or not. And if we say we are truly part of His family, we should take note of His concern as well.

Luke 21:1-4 And He looked up and saw the rich putting their gifts into the treasury. 2 And He saw a certain poor widow putting in two small copper coins. 3 And He said, "Truly I say to you, this poor widow put in more than all of them; 4 for they all out of their surplus put into the offering; but she out of her poverty put in all that she had to live on."

and they shall not appear before the LORD empty-handed. (Deuteronomy 16:16)