Before you think this is just a pretty picture I have a confession to make.
Three weeks ago my heart was greedy and discontent. It wasn’t pretty. Looking at my closet I wanted a shopping spree. (I promise I’m not a shopaholic…in the past four years I’ve spent less than $200 on clothing and shoes.) My wardrobe has been made up of generous hand-me-downs and gifts from sweet people. Recently many items wore out. And even though I have a closet with clothes I was unhappy. I saw girls around me dressing stylishly and I felt like I wasn’t styled in the way I wished to be.
Now don’t get me wrong, there is nothing bad about shopping or dressing beautifully. In fact I think we should be properly attired (I’ll leave that to your own personal definition). Since I am an ambassador of Christ I should want to dress in a graceful and beautiful way. But my heart had turned a healthy desire into craving and I wanted to slap myself for it. My kiddos in India have nothing and yet they are so happy.
So I realized something. I’m so blessed. I am rich in many things that far surpass clothing. And the antithesis of my greed was gratefulness and giving. You know what? I bought these gifts for friends and I had so much joy! I have so much in my life! And when I get the privilege of giving to others I get to give them a little joy too. I want to be a woman who gives abundantly because I know I’ve been given everything when Jesus gave me himself. I want to be a person that knows I can never give too much.
Will join you me this Christmas season and give a donation to our kiddos in India? Let’s bless them this holiday season!
Elaini you look stunning every time I see you. You dress marvelously. However, your heart is what shines the brightest. Your concern for people is commendable . . . well, I wish I could emulate you, and have a Christ centered love that you so ideally represent (to me at least). This brief blog is a representation of the light that shines from within you.
Thank you for your kind words!