Are You a Grateful Receiver?

My youngest daughter, Megan, just turned three years old last week. We had a great party with family and it was such a treat to see Megan eat up all the fun and festivities (and cake!). She seemed to have no problem being the focus of our attention. I also noticed something else during the course of the party. Every time she opened a gift her eyes would light up with enthusiastic joy. There was no doubt she enjoyed the process of receiving gifts. And her gratitude was evident in her response.

As the party was winding down and I started reflecting on the event, I was reminded of the many gifts I receive from God on a daily basis. Each morning when I wake up and breathe another breath, I am given a gift. When my eyes open and I am able to see (albeit, with corrective lenses) I am given a gift. When my feet hit the floor and the muscles in my legs work in harmony to carry me throughout the day, I am given a gift. When my wife says she loves me, I am given a gift. When my children throw their arms around my neck to express their affection for me, I am given a gift. Every day, and all throughout each day, God showers gifts of love and mercy upon me. But how do I respond to such favor?

I must admit that many days I walk through the garden of God's gracious offerings without so much as noticing his affection being poured out on me. In my tunnel vision of selfcenteredness I move from one duty to the next, oblivious to the beautiful blossoms of God's grace budding all around. I am ashamed to admit it, but this is how I live my life at times. So focused on my own agenda and responsibilities that I miss the blessing of gratitude for God's unrelenting mercy.

My daughter seemed to have no trouble basking in the warmth of the gifts she received. She didn't hide from the showering of affection and love. She didn't say, "Oh, I can't receive this. It's too nice. I don't deserve such a nice gift." No, she opened each gift joyfully, thanking those who gave them, but by no means intending to return it! It was given to her and she was sure going to enjoy playing with it. My three year old helped me see what a grateful receiver looks like.

Since Megan's party I have been more aware of the innumerable gifts God gives to me each day. And rather than just coasting through my day without regard for these kindnesses, I am choosing to kick my head back, smile, and embrace with joy the tender mercies of my Savior. I know I don't deserve His goodness or grace. I know I could never repay Him for all He has done for me. But if I thought that I could (or should) repay, then I wouldn't recognize what He gives is a gift. God doesn't want repayment. He wants me. And if this means enjoying to the fullest the abundance He gives, then I pray I will become the grateful receiver He designed me to be.

What gift is God giving you today? Are you aware of the flowers of grace and mercy He plants throughout your life? Rather than walking on by in your self-focused agenda, why not stop, lean down, and with joy, breathe in the sweet fragrance of God's compassion and love for you. All it takes is a little time. And after all, that too is a gift from God...

Grateful for God's gifts,

jonathan