You know [the Spirit of truth], for he dwells with you and will be in you. John 15:17b

An old and scarred drop-leaf table, some delicate pink plates, an earring tree and a small serviceable saucepan are among my favorite possessions, because they came to me from people I love who are no longer living. Our most treasured gifts remind us of the giver.  

Jesus gives us many gifts. The greatest is the relationship He gives us with Himself, earned by His suffering and death that should have been ours for our sins. His gifts also include sharing in His resurrection, all the physical blessings that come our way, as well as the talents and abilities that are uniquely our own.  

It would be easy to view Jesus’ gifts simply as fond remembrances. But His gifts are more. They are tools. His Spirit dwells-–makes his home – with us and in us. He is present and at work in us, and the gifts He’s given are tools for that work. As we recognize and appreciate His gifts, we grow closer to Him. As we put to use the time and talents He’s given us, He’s beside us to guide and bless our efforts. He’s also there to remind us of God’s grace when we sinfully ignore or misuse our gifts. 

We’re never on our own. This Giver’s primary gift is always Himself.  

Read: 1 Corinthians 12

Do: Write down 10 gifts God’s given you. Which ones will you be using today for His purposes?

Jesus, You’ve given me so much. How do you want me to use those gifts today? Amen.