Receiving

The one who blesses others is abundantly blessed; those who help others are helped. (Proverbs 11:25 MSG)

It seems like all of our random acts of kindness have been returned to us in a special, surprise blessing. The following is an excerpt from a letter Todd and I received recently:

"What I would like to do is send you and Christina (and Madeline and Ava, of course) a bit of extra spending money...maybe go out to eat as a family, or get something you've been needing, or save it up for something special...I'd like you to use it without feeling guilty, because I'm going to send something to you EACH month...

I remember what it was like when I was in seminary, married with 3 children...we refused to use what little I was making for 'frivolous' things...

If this is uncomfortable for you, I hope you can get over that feeling and just accept my wanting to help a bit..."

This letter came out of nowhere. Our benefactor is a retired pastor in the area who was looking for a special way to bless a young ministry family. And my, are we ever being blessed!

I was surprised at the gentleman's generosity, but even more at his ability to know my heart. How did he know that I'd have a hard time accepting such a gift? That I'd carry guilt over this grace?

I'm much more comfortable with being a giver. I give my time, talent, and money easily, even if I have to go out of my way to do so, because I have much to give. But today I'm taking a deep breath and just receiving.

Our patron wrote the check to me this month to use on myself. He wrote in his note that he knows how overlooked a pastor's spouse often is and that wanted to do something special for me. I don't know how he knew, but I really needed to hear that this week. I don't know what to do with my gift yet, but I'm sure I'll come up with something...

What blessings have you received lately?