Many years ago, when my first child was just a baby, I went on a shopping trip with my mother-in-law. She spotted a beautiful cobalt blue, silk lined dress and told me to try it on. My wardrobe consisted of sweat pants, over sized t-shirts and high tops. But I tried it on..........for her. Immediately when I stepped into it, it slid on like butter. I had never felt anything like it. My mother-in-law exclaimed, "I am buying this for you!" I felt unworthy. Where would I ever wear it? It was too expensive and lavish to hang in my closet with "no place to go". She bought me that dress, insisting that every girl needs something lined. She then told me I needed to be a gracious receiver. Through the years I found many occasions to wear that dress.
My mother-in-law has given my children many things. She has helped them buy cars, pay for college expenses and most recently she helped my oldest son buy a house for his young family. She does it because she loves them. She does it because she loves to give.
When we give to someone, especially someone in need, it feels great! Most of us love the feeling of giving, but not all of us love the feeling of receiving. Sometimes it makes us feel weak or needy. At times we feel unworthy. But not being a gracious receiver steals the joy from the giver. A refusal of a gift can be a painful thing. Are you a gracious receiver?
Jesus gave his life for us. He died on the cross for US! It was a gift he gave because he loves us. What is your response to this gift? Are you a gracious receiver?
The seed my mother-in-law planted years ago, to teach me to be a gracious receiver, has grown. It bares the fruit of someone who is so thankful and so honored to be loved so much. And the truth is.....I'm not worthy. None of us are really. But we are so loved!