Give something, however small, to one in need. For it is not small to one who has nothing. Neither is it small to God if we have given what we could” ~ Saint Gregory of Nazianzus.
I read this from a church billboard and it resonates.
Sometimes we are hesitant to give because we feel that what we have may not be appreciated by the person whom we are giving. We think that we don’t have what it takes to give and we decide not to give, after all the person is not in need. Thoughts like this deter us from giving.
But giving is an act of kindness that creates a positive feeling and a sense of connection and gratitude. The intention of the giver is placed above the item given and we give what we have, not necessarily what the receiver will appreciate.
Understanding the intention and the different ways we can give is important to teach especially to children who think that giving is all about the donation of an item.
The act of giving starts from sharing, to Identifying a particular area of need to make a difference and to giving according to capacity. It’s cultivated from childhood and expressed better in adulthood.
The item given may look small to man but not to God who sees the heart. God has no concern with the amount or item given but in the heart that gives.
Just like the window’s mite, your smallest gift may be more appreciated and rewarded by God, than the luxury given by another.
Of all the gifts I received this season, one came yesterday from the least expected and a different intention. That was the thrill that inspired this post.
✍️ Amara Ann Unachukwu
