Gift of time
Everyone knows this is a busy time of year. We all have schedules filled with decorating, parties, baking, wrapping, buying, school programs, and family gatherings.
This week and last week have been full for me. We’ve had two parties plus school activities in addition to school programs this week. I try to plan carefully to get done with my regular tasks on top of the “extra” events of the season and not say yes if my schedule will be overcrowded.
But this morning I woke up just feeling overwhelmed at what lay ahead for this week. I hadn’t really slept well, and Monday’s are my busy chore days at home to do laundry and ironing. I knew besides this we had a Christmas party in the evening and still had to get some things done before tomorrow. I also knew I did not want to overdo; being pregnant I’ve been careful to rest as I need to. I wasn’t sure how I was going to get everything done but was trying to pace myself.
My husband called to check on me and asked what needed to be done and if he could do anything for me while he was in town. Later I heard a key in the front door. He had left work early to come home to help me. I told him he did not have to do that because I know he has a hundred things at work to do. He said he just wanted to help me.
I was touched that he did this for me. I don’t like to ask for help really, but I was thankful he saw my need and gave of his time to help me. (And we were able to get done what we needed to do which made me feel so much better.)
Thinking of his example got me thinking how busy people are this time of year. It is a blessing to be able to help another, and his gift of time caused me to think how I can help someone else.
Who can you share your time with this week? Don’t think of it as “one more thing” to add to a busy list. Instead see it as way to bless someone else and make their load lighter. I’m sure you will be blessed by doing it too.
I know we can all think of someone we can help, either a member of our family, neighbor, coworker, or friend. Maybe it is something simple like folding a load of laundry or putting up the clean dishes for your spouse. Maybe you could pick up some things at the grocery store while you are there anyway for your elderly neighbor so she doesn’t have to get out in the cold. Or you could volunteer to watch the neighbor kids at your house while their Mom gets some presents wrapped. If you start thinking, it is easy to think of others who could be blessed by the gift of time.
As Christians we can be like Christ when we give of ourselves to help others. Help someone else carry their load.
“And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.” Hebrews 13:16
Great reminder, Bethany. Thank you. I’ve been enjoying the gift of time with loved ones and neighbors lately. Merry Christmas, sweet friend.
You are right, Bethany; giving our time to help others is indeed a very precious gift. Thank you for the timely reminder.