Missing Buttons

Missing Buttons

Martha Meister Kiely

c

"Give, and there will be gifts for you: a full measure, pressed down, shaken together, and overflowing, will be poured into your lap; because the standard you use will be the standard

used for you." Luke 6:28

c

Those who process used clothing for the relief of the poor claim that their most aggravating headaches is caused by the "Big hearted Herberts" who cut the buttons off clothing before parting with it. A coat without buttons leaves the recipient open to the cold and the giver open to criticism.

c

Unless we can let go of a gift, buttons and all, we had better keep it. Gifts are sometimes spoiled by "snippy" presentations speeches or by strings attached that turn out to be snares. Most of us at one time or another have received a "booby trap" wrapped in pink ribbon. Only the gift that comes from the heart, wrapped in love, with all the buttons on, is worthy of the name "gift." The good Samaritan deserves to go to the head of the class in giving. He not only left on all the buttons; he even slipped a few extra into the pocket. In referring to him, Dr. Luccock writes: "He didn't measure himself out with a medicine dropper. He tossed himself out in big chunks."

c

Today toss yourself out in big chunks.

c

Read: Luke 10:29-37

c

Pray: Lord, thou dost give to us exceeding abundantly above all we ask or think. May we so give to others. Amen.

xc

Devotions for Women at Home by Martha Meister Kiely, Abingdon Press ISBN 0-687-10679-6