And I have been a constant example of how you can help those in need by working hard. You should remember the words of the Lord Jesus: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’”

Acts 20:35 (NLT)

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“I’d love to bring you a meal.”

“I’ll make you a pot of soup and drop it off after church.”

“Is there anything I can do for you?”

I’m usually the one doing the checking and making sure that everyone is OK. But I have been on the receiving end twice this year — when I broke my foot early in the year and this week after surgery. It is not in my nature to be the receiver and I must admit it has not been easy for me to accept these gifts of love.

However, I noticed that not everyone has the same gift of giving.

I have one friend who told me before the surgery that making a meal was not her thing but she would be praying constantly for me.

People from various parts of my life offered to bring food — neighbors, MOPS, Bible Study. Some I know well and others have recently entered my circle of friends.

My natural response is to tell them I have it under control. Rather than turning down the offer, I discovered that it is an affirmation to the giver to accept their offer and a joy to me to be the recipient of  their love.

I was reading a devotion this morning about the woman who presented the costly gift of oil to Jesus the night before He was crucified. Others around the table criticized her for wasting the money — it could have been spent on greater needs. But Jesus, reprimanded then and told them the she did what she could. And her story is remembered right along with His death and resurrection.

And so it is with us. We do the things that God has gifted us to do and in that we make up the whole body of Christ. Be gracious in both your giving and receiving.

Anyone want a hot dog?