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“If I give all I possess to the poor… but do not have love, I gain nothing.” 1 Corinthians 13:3 (NIV)
As December begins and we prepare for Christmas and New Years, we are often led to reflection on the spirit of giving. Beyond the myriad advertisements and commercial displays of the month and its holidays, giving to others can be both a simple and personal thing.
While this can seem challenging sometimes, it is important to consider the burdensome expectations we may put on ourselves here.
While we may be inclined to sometimes spend beyond our means for loved ones’ gifts, we must reflect on our intentions for the gifts to begin with. This is to say, giving is a sign of love and appreciation. Throughout our lives, the gifts we receive hold varying meaning, often related to who gives them.
So, we must understand that the spirit of giving is based in both gratitude and affection, and sometimes, our simple presence with others, in good times and bad, can be a gift by itself.
–James Stone
