giving..

well, i haven't blogged lately.. seems like there are always a million other things to be done. even now, there are clothes to be folded, bathrooms to be cleaned, closets to be organized and scrapbooks to be made.. but i think i will just sit down for a minute and write about something that made me feel good today.
i love to give and do nice things for people with out anything needed or expected in return. i don't do it nearly as often as i should or would like to, but birthday's are always a great excuse (not that we should need one). as i put together a package to send to my sweet little niece who is turning 3 next week, i got excited. i only wish i could be there when she gets the package to see her face. not because of the gifts inside (b/c they aren't spectacular) but because there is a joy that lights up a face when someone is felt valued, loved or appreciated. whether you are three or seventy-three, we all want to feel special. i want the people in my life to know how special they are to me. a few weeks ago my husband said something to me. he said.. i want us to practice the principle "give unto others as you would have given unto you" but in a different way. he asked me to think of a few things that i would love have done for me or given to me... then said now let's do that for someone else. for example.. wouldn't it be great to go to starbucks and have someone buy your drink for you? or wouldn't you love it if someone wanted to babysit your kids for free :o) (doesn't every mom!) what about cleaning your car for you or having someone help you carry your groceries.. the list could go on and on. i was just thinking today how i want the Lord to be able to use me and my family to bless others. he has provided for us more than i could ask for and i just want to extend that to others so they can know the amazing love of a Father who desires to give us good things in order that we may know him better and experience His fullness. a church i went to when i lived in cincinnati summed up their mission in one simple statement.. "small things done with great love will change the world..." i believe this is so true.
i want my life to show those around me (those i know, and even those i don't) the heart of an infinite God who is in love with His creation so much that He gave His life for them. and if one small act of kindness can lead someone to that understanding.. my life has been used for a far greater purpose than i am able to take credit for.