'Tis Better to Receive and to Give
Acts 20:35
When Paul quotes Jesus that it is better to give than to receive (Acts 20:35), I don’t think He was talking about shopping online, or waiting in line to find that “perfect” gift. I’m not knocking such gift-giving, only reminding each of us to think more on the only truly perfect gift that has and will ever be given to each of us, God’s love through Jesus Christ.
How is this Godly Gift being received in your life? How is it being given?
For at one time or another, in our individual lives, we will find ourselves as either the Receiver in need, or the one able to be the Giver.
Speaking of giving first, picture the wise men offering their gifts of Gold, Frankincense and Myrrh to baby Jesus.
What gift(s) can each of us bring to the Savior during this season celebrating His birth? While we cannot place them personally at His manger, how can we still give our gifts directly to Him?
He has told us how in (Matthew 25:35-46).
Thus, as we love, serve and help others, even the least of these, we are giving Him our greatest and most personal gift of all, our hearts.
The famous “Golden Rule” (Matthew 7:12) offers additional, reinforcing insight on the gift of God’s love. It is about much more than giving and receiving. It’s about the thought, the spirit (desire) of the action.
Do we do unto others (how we treat them) and give unto others (Time, Talents and/or Treasures), not expecting to receive anything in return? Why or why not? The answer has at least two components. The first is more of a commandment where much is given (Luke 12:48) and the second is more about compassion as a cheerful giver (2 Corinthians 9:6-8).
While we know the importance of giving, what about the blessings of receiving? Can there be a Giver if there is not a Receiver?
This may seem like a Christian conundrum, but both a beautiful treasure and warning lies hidden within in this mortal mystery.
Sadly, there can be a Giver without a Receiver. For we know that some people do not, will not accept God’s grace, or the peace and healing that comes through the Atonement of Jesus Christ (2 Timothy 3:1-7).
Nevertheless, this is why it is even more crucial during this season of celebrating the birth of our Savior, that we each become both the Receiver of His light and love and then become the Giver as we let His light so shine (Matthew 5:14-16) to bless others.
No matter what gifts we choose to give and receive this sacred season and beyond, may we each take time to remember (and receive and share) the greatest gift ever given to each of us; a gift which we can receive, open and enjoy every day of our lives. This gift is God’s love given through His Beloved Son, our Savior, Jesus Christ.
With this Love comes Peace (John 14:27), Hope (Jeremiah 29:11), Strength (Philippians 4:13) and Forgiveness (Isaiah 1:18).
May we each receive these gracious gifts and give them to others in all ways, now and always.