Life Gifts

" Above everything else, guard your heart. It is where your life comes from." Proverbs 4:23 NIV

My mother always treasured gifts made by my sisters and I. We could never understand why she requested plain, put-together presents for her birthday. Each year we would shop to find the perfect gifts, wrap them in pretty paper and proudly wait for her to discover what was inside.

She would become excited, even before boxes were opened. She would lovingly take time to enjoy the colored cards which were written with messages of love, and attached to the gifts which were piled high. 

“These are gifts of the heart”, she would say, and smile as if she had just received a wonderful treasure. Sometimes she would tenderly cry and wipe her eyes, which were always filled with tears.

My mother taught us a lot about gifts of the heart. She said they were “God Treasures” to remind her she was loved. Our cards would be displayed on the mantle for weeks, before she would place them where they would not be forgotten.

God wants us to share gifts of the heart with those who will understand the value of their worth. In moments of purpose, He provides opportunities for us to feel blessed, as we simply share what He allows us to give. God prepares us to recognize when our hearts have been opened wide enough to realize love is not found in objects which bring only temporary pleasure.

God is the Master Planner. He knows how we will discover the beauty of His goodness and grace. Sometimes He reminds us why simple things are most important. God wants us to experience gifts of the heart. He prepares our souls to receive them and reminds us to not let them be forgotten.

We recently sorted through old photographs and keepsakes. Old, tattered cards had been lovingly kept in the bottom of a cardboard box. One had a message which spoke to my heart… “Mom, I don’t have money to buy a present. Here is my love for you…” What a gift to discover, as I remembered the life of my mother!

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Our mother is no longer with us, but we treasure the lesson she taught us about love. It cannot be bought or tied with a bow. It doesn’t have to be purchased new. Love is the heart of the giver. It is the simple offering of life gifts, and the beautiful act of sharing them with those we tenderly love.

God is near. Share His love,

Nan