We welcomed back Ann Dracott to our meeting.  It is always a delight to see Ann and once again Ann brought a bag full of props (or hotchpotch of items in her words!) for her talk.

This time we were treated to items which had been given as presents to Ann over the years.  Some of the items were very precious and held many memories.

Why do we traditionally give presents?  Out of love, obligation to say sorry, or because it is the thing to do? It is part of our culture and gifts can say a lot about the giver.  Some gifts may be just perfect but others not so and might need to be given away!

Ann reminded us that God always give us the right gift because He knows what we need, what we like and what we can use!

  • And my God will meet all your needs according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus – Philippians 4 v 19
  • Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows. James 1 v 17
  • There are different kinds of gifts but the same Spirit – 1 Corinthians 12 v 4. We are all different and we need different things.  God gives us appropriate gifts.
  • Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift – 2 Corinthians 9 v 15. God knows just what is right for us and we need to have a personal relationship with Him to truly appreciate His gifts to us.

Everything we have comes from God so what can we give to God that is ours to freely give? Our lives, our free will! It is only when God has our hearts that He can use us.  Can you say in all sincerity, “Your will be done!”

Ann linked her thoughts with the Parable of the Ten Minas in Luke 19 v 11-26. The master gave the servants what they could handle.  To one he gave 10 minas, to another 5 minas and to another just 1 mina. It is a very interesting story to learn what the servants did with the gifts and well worth reading. The lesson is for us all to use the gifts we are given wisely.

Ann concluded with the thought that we should all thank God for the gifts He has given us and not to go comparing our gifts with others. God gives us what we can cope with and He will equip us for works of service. So, lets keep our eyes open and be thankful for the gifts God brings and use them to bless others and bring Glory to our Heavenly Father.