The Giving Heart

A memory flashed into my mind this week. My sister had been about four years old when, with a great smile on her face, she announced she was making something special for our Mom and Dad. She then went into the kitchen and returned with two bowls of cereal — cornflakes with water, salt and pepper! Of course, I was aghast! As the big sister I wanted to tell her right away what a stupid thing to do. My parents gave the look that said be quiet. I stood amazed as they each took several spoonfuls of this concoction, and then thanked her for it! I did note they also said they were now so full they couldn’t possibly eat another bite :) My sister took the bowls away with the greatest of happiness in her heart. She had given in love, and her gift had been received in the same manner.

Do you ever feel inadequate? Perhaps you want to do something for God but you convince yourself you have nothing of worth to offer. You tell yourself that others around you are more talented, can do things better than you, have more to offer, etc. Let me remind you of the verse found in II Corinthians 9:7, “Each one of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” Your Heavenly Father isn’t looking for the best overall; He is looking for your best, and He loves it when you give your best with a happy heart, just like my sister gave her cornflakes extravaganza. 

Was cornflakes with water, salt and pepper the best gift of all? Yes, for her four year old self, it was the best she could give and she gave it with a joyful heart. It was received in the same joy. If we, as earthly imperfect beings, can receive imperfect gifts, when we know the gifts are given in great love, how much more is our perfect Heavenly Father pleased with what we give Him? It’s not a matter of the gift; it’s a matter of the giving heart. Give of your best today. Joy will be shared in great measure between you and your Heavenly Father.