Give Good Gifts

Every good thing given and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shifting shadow.~ James 1:17

Wholehearted gratitude helps our spirits flourish, and it behooves (such a delightful word!) us to do good things with the good gifts we are given!

It’s a Christian privilege and duty to be generous and kind to others. Even if all we have for someone is a smile… besides prayer, it could well be the most important gift to someone at that particular moment. It can lift their soul up. 

A smile says I care about you. It says I see you, I respect you, I see our Lord in you.

When we have sincere compassion for others, God notices and surprises us with many blessings, sometimes more than what we deserve.

…It is more blessed to give than to receive. ~ Acts 20:35

A beautiful 19th century hymn – Give Good Gifts comes to mind. Our youth choir has sung this “anytime” song throughout the year at different events. 

Give good gifts, one to another,

Peace, joy and comfort, gladly bestow,

Harbour no ill ‘gainst sister or brother,

Smooth life’s journey as you onward go!

(Repeat)   

                        

Broad as the sunshine, free as the showers,

So shed an influence, blessing to prove;

Give for the noblest of efforts your pow’rs;

Blest and be blest is the law of love.

(Repeat)

Mt. Lebanon N.Y.
 

Just for Now

A tree is known by its fruit; a man by his deeds. A good deed is never lost; he who sows courtesy reaps friendship, and he who plants kindness gathers love.  ~ St. Basil the Great

This has been a very unusual Great Lent. Granted, each year is different, no two are ever alike. There’s different struggles and temptations.

Through repentance, prayer, fasting and charity, Great Lent renews our minds, hearts and deeds according to His teachings. It refreshes our love for God and neighbour as oneself. During this quiet time of inner reflection, we prepare ourselves for the coming Great and Holy Day of Pascha (Easter), the Resurrection of our Lord.

Unexpectedly driven into global stillness and isolation, there’s an unprecedented general hush throughout our world. Whether we wish it or not, we have a rare opportunity of unavoidable introspection… individually and nationally.

We can see the best and the worst in ourselves. We see the selfless love, courage and compassion of others, during a trying time.

This year, the whole earth is united in a collective Great Lent. Together we wait with quiet hope and patience for Renewal.

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