Unopened Gifts
"Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve
others, faithfully administering God's grace in various
forms." — 1 Peter 4:10 (NIV)
When I was a young girl we had big Christmas celebrations.
My mother invited many family members and friends. Gifts
were bought for all who would attend. Occasionally someone
was unable to attend; their gift was left sitting unopened
under the tree.
I remember longing to see what was in those unexposed
packages. I was almost tempted to take a peek myself. I
thought the fun of gifts was being able to see them
unwrapped. . .
Just as those gifts sat unopened under our tree, some people
never bother to unwrap or use their gifts and talents. They
just sit there — never possessed, used or enjoyed. We all
need the enjoyment of seeing those gifts unwrapped, for
ourselves, as well as others.
The Lord blesses each of us with unique gifts and talents
that should be used to honor Him. In Exodus 35, God called
the Israelites to come and use their gifts to help build the
temple. It says, "Both men and women came, all who were
willing-hearted."
Recognizing our gifts helps us to use them properly. It may
be your voice, your hands, or your ability to listen. I know
a woman who loves to bake. She uses her gift to give pies to
newcomers at her church. My friend Sue knows that she
doesn't like to cook. So she stays away from volunteering to
make a meal, but uses her talent of hospitality to open her
home for a church meeting.
Not only are our vocations in life gifts, but our positions
are, too. Our ability to be a good a spouse, parent, or
friend, are all important gifts. The gift of leadership
helps us to lead our family, or moves us into a management
position. Many people think going to work is just a routine,
and never realize that they are in essence using their gift
Our Christmas tree represents Christ. We sit under His
authority, just as those presents sat underneath our tree.
We need to sit beneath Him and open our gifts.
With time the people came to open those gifts that were left
under our tree. Take a look at your life, and examine what
gifts you have left unopened.
Annettee Budzban