Wondrous Gifts That Belong To Us

Matthew 25:7-9 – The ten girls woke up and trimmed their lamps. Then the foolish ones said to the wise ones, "Let us have some of your oil, because our lamps are going out". "No, indeed," the wise ones answered, "there is not enough for you and for us.'"

Little Sue is standing before the Christmas tree in tinselled delight. More than the tinsel and lights, she sees the presents there that have her name on them. It is a good feeling, because she is an important person, beloved and well favoured. Her parents trust in the Lord that as she matures she will receive in a like way the wondrous spiritual gifts of God and know she is beloved of the Lord and spiritually well favoured.

But her parents wish to be sure that Sue does not grow up to be a selfish girl. So she must be taught to share her toys, to do unto others as she would have them do unto her, and to know about the good Samaritan. All of this is scriptural and good. But in the parable of the lamps, the Lord has cautioned us about a subtle process, which can appear to be charitable or reasonable, can forestall the salvation which is our spiritual endowment. As Sue takes her place, she must diligently receive unto herself the free gift of grace and salvation, and spiritual stature, which must take priority over any seemingly good or charitable pursuit. Then, the opportunities to serve others will take on new and fuller meaning, as she approaches her young life from a position of maturity and strength in the Spirit of Christ.

Prayer: Our Heavenly Father, how beautiful it is to behold the unfolding of young lives within the realm of grace. We pray for those young people who do not know grace, that we may be diligent to help them, and that those who labour in this work will be inspired and strengthened in their mission. Amen.

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