Gifts

“Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them.  Are you not much more valuable than they?”  Matthew 6:26

It is impossible to understand the greatness of God’s love. That the Creator of the universe cares about the twists and turns of our lives is unimaginable. He knows the stars by name. He knows the number of grains of sand on the ocean floor. He knows the number of hairs on the head of every person alive on this planet. And yet, we struggle to trust Him with the details of our lives. If He is mighty enough to speak all things into being, isn’t He worthy of our full confidence and surrender?

Have you ever wondered why God chose to give such wonderful gifts? He didn’t have to give the zebra strips or paint such magnificent sunsets. It wasn’t necessary to have so many different kinds of flowers, birds, and butterflies. Who said that sea turtles had to be created with the innate ability to return thousands of miles to the same beach where they were born to lay their eggs? Why such a splendid creation?

Everything in creation shouts that God can be trusted. God left no stone unturned. He created a world that is self-sustaining. Birds migrate, bears hibernate, trees shed their leaves, and plants make food and provide oxygen for us to breathe. The moon, tides, seasons, and sun work together in inexplicable ways. Right now we are living on a giant magnetic fireball flying through space, rotating and turning and spinning at just the right degree and speed to sustain life. Who did all of this? Who gave such gifts?

If you are like me, there is always great anticipation for Christmas morning. When I was a child, I couldn’t wait to see what gifts I received; but now, I can’t wait to see others’ reactions to the gifts I give. There is no greater joy than seeing a gift that I thoughtfully selected and sacrificed to purchase be received with delight, joy, and gratitude.

The same is true of God, and even more so. He is the perfect gift-giver. His gifts meet our needs and satisfy our desires. He knows what we need before we even have to ask. There is no naughty-or-nice list…His gifts are given in grace, not based on behavior.

Look around and choose to see His gifts. Let them drive you to trust Him more.

Heavenly Father, I praise You and thank You for Your good gifts. Evidence of Your trustworthiness is everywhere I choose to look for it. Please help me to remember to give these gifts away to those who so desperately need Your love. In Christ’s name, amen.