Giver, More Blessed?

Giver, More Blessed?

In Acts 20:35 we read that the Lord Jesus said “it is more blessed to give than to receive.” To shed enlightenment to this unbelievable beatitude one may Google David Murray, professor and pastor, for his article 10 Reasons Why it is More Blessed to Give than to Receive. Outside of a religious perspective can one find any wisdom on the joy of giving? I think so.

You

are special to me.

A gift brings forth a joyful glow much like what you would expect with the initial sun rays bursting through rain clouds that have been dumping their tears for weeks. The appreciation stirs a warmth in both that’s rises like a midday sun.

Of course a token gift won’t do. Gift certificates, like a get-well card or birthday card, may grow a trace smile, what one might expect from a weatherman’s promise of sunny day.  When the nature of the present arises out of the giver’s long, close observations, it proclaims a dedicated attention, a deep caring interest. Time sacrificed to seek a hoped-for desire and to acquire the gift testifies to the high value of the relationship. Time spent together is often cherished.

How then can a giver not be blessed? The problem may begin with the nature of the person receiving the gift. In the Bible passage above the instruction reads “. . .help the weak . . . .” Some people cannot accept being seen as needy, as incapable of caring for themselves. Others may not trust the giver. There’s a suspicion they will be called upon to return the favor, probably when they’re unable to respond. The prospect of being obligated in the future is unsettling. The gift or favor must be returned as soon as possible to restore a balanced relationship.

In  Baggage burdens. there are times when Jill desperately needs help. Accepting assistance often leaves her in vulnerable situations. Being in control so as not to owe anyone anything is her solution. The prospect of becoming dependent reduces her expression of gratitude. When Bill buys Jill a glass of wine one evening in Chicago, she purchases one the next evening. When Jill is in the hospital, she needs and appreciates Bill’s company. When she returns home, she ends his visits, ends being further in his debt. She can only accept him visiting her at home, when she reasons she’s doing him a favor. Since his wife recently died, he needs someone to prepare a home cooked meal. Gift for gift––only time receiving a favour or present is acceptable.

Is giving a birthday or Christmas gift to a child the only time you’ve been blessed by their expression of joy?

When giving is more rewarding than receiving one might see this as irony.  My next blog explores this concept, and its use in Baggage burdens.