Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. 2 Corinthians 9:6
My great-aunt would always have gifts and money for us each year on birthdays and Christmas. This past Christmas was a little different; she was cutting back to what was necessary. That didn’t bother us in the least and we’d been hoping she’d do that for years now. We received a card that had a wonderful note that was personal and encouraging. It was a card that I’ll treasure and one of the nicest gifts we received at Christmas.
I received a surprise letter on Valentine’s Day from my oldest son. It was wonderfully written in his beautiful handwriting and brought me to tears. He expressed his appreciation for me and really spoke from his heart. He told me that I could always keep it and pull it out to read even when he’s not living at home any more. It will always be one of the most important letters I’ve ever received.
There was a day when I received quotes and wonderful recipes in the mail from halfway across the globe. I made copies of the recipes, and put everything in a binder that I keep right beside my bed. They’re so, so special to me. The same couple made sure that we had an amazing letter when they knew they wouldn’t be around much longer because they were so sick. They spoke to each one of us in that letter so that we were getting their encouragement and advice even after they were gone. I was humbled that they were thinking of our family even when they were so sick. What a gift!
The character trait for today is Thriftiness-allowing myself and others to spend only what is necessary (definition from characterfirst.com).
We could’ve gone all different ways with our character trait for today, but I felt like gift giving was on my heart. I’ve received amazing gifts that I’m so appreciative of, and there’s nothing wrong with wanting to give things that are more expensive. I know that when we set a price limit on gifts though, that’s when the creative, imaginative, and heartfelt gifts are exchanged.
It isn’t always about what’s spent, but about the love that is given. We can sow generously through gifts even when we’re thrifty. By the way, I’m not saying to stop or decrease the amounts of your donating gifts!
I recognize this doesn’t work for everybody and that’s ok, but I want to challenge you to talk with those closest to you about their feelings on coming up with a plan to be thrifty on gifts. I think you’ll be astonished to know how well your loved ones really know you. Coupons for services are also usually appreciated! Get creative!
