First Christmas Present!

A few days ago, I wrote a post about how much I have been convicted about the way I spend my time and money, specifically with Christmas around the corner. I felt like I needed to probably clarify my heart...when I said I would return any gifts that I got and use the money toward giving clean drinking water to families around the world who are denied access to it. I realized after that that might sound a bit, well, rude. My heart was in the right place, it just didn't come out right. But before I even had a chance to clarify or re-word my thoughts, I got my first Christmas present via email, and I couldn't have been more ecstatic.

My sweet friend Laura understood my heart and she did the hard thing for me. She actually returned the gift she had already bought me and used the money toward Living Water International (which is all part of the One Gift campaign our church is doing). So I got this fun gift card in my inbox and then got to choose where I contributed the water. I spread it around to several different countries, but gave most of it to schools in India...mainly because Yusuf (the little boy I support) lives in India.

What an absolutely beautiful gift! Thank you, sweet friend, for understanding my heart and wanting to be a part of what God is doing. I praise Him for your generous heart, as well as for your love for Jesus. I am so blessed by this selfless gift, and I am excited how God can use 2 friends who made a decision to spend less and give more.

Thank you, Lord for using us despite the fact we are a mess. You don't need us, but you choose to be in love relationship with us, and you allow us to be a part of your kingdom work. I pray that you would use this humble gift to reach many for your kingdom. Thank you Lord for breaking our hearts for the things that break yours. Continue to work in our hearts, Lord. Give us the strength and the courage to know what it truly means to "offer our bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to You." May your name be praised in our tiny gift, for it is all for Your glory and honor.