Friday, January 22, 2010

... the grace of receiving...

[From The Path Beyond the Gate by Ann Smith.]100_4343

Who doesn't love to give?  We all love to give.  We have been taught to give from birth.  Much pleasure and delight is found in watching someone receive what we have to give and love and appreciate our gift to them.  And we have been given the most precious gift of all and we can not help but share the gift of God's grace with others.

The grace of receiving has a secret element.  It liberates both the giver and receiver.

I am amazed at the wisdom of what Ann Smith says, "I love the story of Jesus talking to the woman at the well.  Remember the first thing He said to her?  'Please give me a drink of water.'  What do you think that communicated to her?  Somehow, I think it communicated, 'I need you.  I trust you to be kind.'  Jesus received from the woman what she had to give and that set her free to receive what He had to give."

Ooooo, that's good stuff! 

Precious Lord, help me to recognize that every person I meet has something to give me, something I can learn from them.  Help me to enter their presence with my 'hand open' to communicate respect for them and recognition of what they have to offer.  Help me to see the worth You have created in them.  Help me to validate those who need validation.  And then, please Lord, allow me the privilege and joy of giving to them.  May I find favor today with You and with the Divine Appointments You give me.  In Jesus Name I pray, Amen.

1 comment:

Mrs. Monty said...

Catching up with the blogs today. Sorry to hear about your ugly weather. That sand storm was awful looking. But here in Florida we are having great weather now, finally. It has been warm and sunny the last week. Had a little rain but nothing like poor California. Take care and tell Don hello.