Give gifts from your heart
"Every good and perfect gift is from above..." James 1:17 (NIV)
Christmas is a time to be celebrated, not dreaded. But many are living on a tight budget that leaves nothing more than mere pennies left at the end of each payday.
This can cause one to feel left out and quench the spirit of the joy of giving.
Recently, I was going through my storage cabinet looking for some old jewelry. I pulled out the heart-shaped box and rummaged through my items. A small piece of colored paper caught my attention.
It had something written on it. I pulled it out of the box to take a closer look. My eyes watered as I read the inscription, "To Mom from Tim ... One car wash." It was a handmade gift card my son had made for me many years ago. I stopped searching through my box and realized what a jewel this gift really was. How thoughtful of him to be willing to give a gift of service, a sentiment from the heart as I thought of it.
A few days later, I laughed saying to myself, "I must not have cashed this in. I wonder if he will still honor it."
Sentimental gifts can be long lasting. They can bring many loving memories to the receiver and to the giver.
The toys, trinkets and other things eventually fade away and get forgotten, especially when they break or are replaced with the next up-to-date and innovative invention.
Sentimental gifts given from our hearts can rekindle romance in a marriage; renew and restore old friendships; and uplift someone in need of tangible help.
When finances and spirits are low, remember giving is an attitude of the heart. Why not let your imagination run wild and surprise a loved one with something money can't buy.
The first Christmas gift was given to us from God's sentimental heart. He brought us Jesus Christ, a loving sacrificial Savior who is ready to forgive our sins and help us find an abundant life simply by asking and following his guidance.
• Annettee Budzban's book, "Spend a Moment with God," can be ordered through bookstores or online bookstores, or by calling (877) 289-2665.