Easier to Give Than Receive

I have a great time giving.  In fact, it is one of my favorite things to do.  I love to see the smile on the person's face, see the warmth in their heart, and see how it can make a person's day.  Giving comes easily to some.  But receiving....that is a whole other idea.

I realized today that I am not a good receiver.  I can't put my finger on the exact reason.  Maybe I am too prideful?  Maybe I feel I don't deserve it?  Maybe I am so used to being in the opposite shoes?  Whatever the reason, today was humbling because I had to be on the receiving end.

Some very dear friends of ours called and asked if we had gotten a Christmas tree yet.  We weren't exactly sure if we were getting one this year.  Every year we have always had one to light the house, cover the presents, hold our special ornaments, and remind us of the Light of the season.  However this year we just thought maybe we should put the money toward the adoption instead.  We don't really need a tree.  We won't be putting many presents under it anyway.

So when they called and asked if we got a tree yet, and then they asked if they could drop by a "gift" after hearing we hadn't gotten a tree, I honestly felt fearful.  What should I say?  How do I receive this?  Pretty silly isn't it?

They came this afternoon and brought the tree.  Not just any tree mind you.....a beautiful--perfect really--Noble Fir that just made our day.  Then my friend gave us a card to open.  Tucked carefully inside was a very generous check towards bringing Chloe home.  I couldn't keep my emotions in check....I couldn't help but do the "stupid cry" and just wept and hugged her.  Wow, we were humbled, touched, and so thankful because it really showed us not just how much these friends love us, but how much they love Chloe already.  How much they love the Lord.  How much they are willing to sacrifice to help others.  It also showed us that God IS going to take care of the fundraising.  We can work as diligently as we can, and He will stir people's hearts to help bring HIS DAUGHTER home from Ethiopia.

It also reminded me of my other dear friend who is also sending a check for a rather generous gift.  Though I have known her for so very many years, she continues to amaze me with her love, her unwavering support, and her family's love for us too.

Wow, I am humbled.  And yet, it isn't about us is it?  It is about the Lord accomplishing HIS work through HIS servants who love Him dearly and love the children of this world who don't have parents.  God is the best parent I know.

"God sets the lonely in families." Psalm 68:6

He makes a home for them and He uses all of His children to love and care for the ones who need Him most.