Grasp God's Gifts

One busy afternoon my youngest child came to me as I worked in the office, her smile so trusting and bright as she met my eyes with her gaze. After pushing her palm toward me, she pulled her fingers back, revealing a tiny cherry tomato grown in her garden.

As I reached for her gift, thoughts swarmed my mind. The first were, "I'm not hungry." "I already had several tomatoes today and too many cause stomach problems." "I hope she washed it." As fast as those intruders pressed at me, God covered them with His truth. "How loving of her to think of me."

I returned her delight with a smile of my own and reached for her offering. After popping it in my mouth to taste the sweet juice, I had one reply. "You grow the best cherry tomatoes."

How often life presents gifts such as this! Moments that seems like an interruption become a divine meeting between opportunity and a decision to love.

After my daughter and I shared a hug, I thanked her, and we chatted a bit before she left my side with lightness in her step and joy on her face. Our connection made her feel like the best gardener in the world. A giving daughter. Seen. Appreciated. Loved. Treasured.

Lord, please help me hear You whisper when opportunities are presented that might be interpreted as distractions. Help me recognize Your hand in events. Even those I see as problems or pressures. Each day You offer moments I can choose to grasp or let flutter to the ground unseen or unused.

May my heart be more in alignment with yours each day. Let it shine You. May it bring my family closer to me, each other, and You. May You shine from me so brightly that my children can’t stay away from the flame of Your great love. Help me live with the delight of a child offering gifts from my heart because mine is deeply entwined with Yours.

What a blessing to be aware and ready to grasp God's gifts! Precious Father keep my mind and heart alert to possibilities that You present each day. My daughter and the fruits of her labor highlight the fruits of Your labor in our lives. May the work of our hands always highlight the work of Yours. May my reactions always honor You and bring my child straight to Your arms.