Matthew 7: 9“Or what man is there among you who, when his son asks for a loaf, will give him a stone? 10“Or if he asks for a fish, he will not give him a snake, will he? 11“If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father who is in heaven give what is good to those who ask Him!” (NIV)

Christmas is over for another year. Did you receive anything special as a gift this year? Finding that perfect gift for someone is a true art form. Some people give presents which we remember for years. It is not about the money spent on the item but the joy it brings to the one receiving it.

I remember a special gift I received years ago. It was not a Christmas present. Instead, it was something I received in November 1974. My parents and I were in Pittsburgh for dad to attend some meetings. One evening, as we walked along a street, I saw a beautiful baby blue corduroy jacket in a shop window. We did not have much money, so I knew asking for it was out of the question. For several days, we walked the same route allowing me to see the jacket again and again. On the last day of the trip, dad told me to go in and try it on. Excitement coursed through my body as I ran into the shop. I tried it on, and it was a perfect fit. Dad bought it for me. I wore that jacket till it fell apart. I even wore it for my school photos that same year (no laughing, it was 1974).

My dad was not perfect. All parents have their faults. But my father did know how to give us wonderful gifts. Since my dad is no longer here, I cherish these special memories. I also enjoy trying to make those types memories for others too. I like to take gifts to give away to the children we meet during our mission trips. I love watching their faces light up since poverty prevents many for receiving gifts.

As the verse above states in verse 11 “If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father who is in heaven give what is good to those who ask Him!” What a thrill to realize that our Father wants to give us good presents. All we have to do is believe in Him and then ask. His gifts are greater than anything we can ever imagine. Psalm 37:4 also tells us “Take delight in the LORD, and he will give you the desires of your heart.” Jesus wants to give you great gifts. What keeps you from asking?

Blessings,

Yvonne with Orphan Relief Effort, Inc.

Matthew 28:19 “Therefore, GO and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.”