Giving God Something "Personal"

           Our youngest daughter really likes country ham, so we decided to prepare a ham for the brunch on the day following her wedding. We could have paid someone to do that, but I wanted to do it myself. I received a surprise in the process. As I sliced the ham, quite unintentionally I recalled her life. Memories of Elizabeth as an infant, a toddler, a little girl, a young woman, and the wonderful adult she has become all wafted through my mind. That did not make it easier to see the ham, but it certainly made preparing it a blessing.

            Truly personal gifts nearly always have such a profound impact. Even with their imperfections they convey depth of feeling. I have become somewhat hooked on a television series entitled Bones. In a Christmas episode, a team of researchers becomes exposed to a potential contagion and has to remain under quarantine on Christmas. They decide to draw names and make something for each other to exchange on Christmas Day. The most joyful part of their Christmas festivities comes as their family members visit them behind glass panels; but next in line is their exchange of simple, handmade gifts. Some might deem that maudlin, but it rang true for me.

            We have two Sundays remaining in our seven week celebration of Easter. During Easter and Christmas we celebrate “personal gifts” from God. During the twelve days of Christmas we celebrate the Incarnation, God taking flesh. During the fifty days of Easter we celebrate the Resurrection, God’s triumph over all human limitations by defeating death. In response to God’s gift of Easter, why not give God something “personal.”

            God probably is not solely Christian, so slicing ham may not make the right statement! We have other options. We’ve finally had the right weather to begin planting our church garden. An hour or two of work will help us provide food pantries with fresh produce. We still need helpers for Vacation Bible School and nearly always can use extra hands in children and youth ministries. Volunteered lately? Monthly we prepare meals for a spouse abuse center. If cooking is not your gift, buying paper goods or a bakery sweet will work. Those who travel to the Drop Inn Center would enjoy some company and the SEM Food Pantry often needs folks willing to pick up the items they distribute. It could be fun. Each week hands-on opportunities (possible “personal gifts”) abound. Financial gifts can be personal as well, especially when we reflect on how God has blessed us as we provide them. When we have that awareness, blessings often surprise us along the way.

            Truly personal gifts nearly always have a profound impact. For fifty days we are celebrating God’s personal gift we call Resurrection. Think about some ways to get personal in response. We always have room for more faith and love.

Happy Easter!

LP