Accepting The Gift

I can not write this post without telling you what I think is one of the most disturbing things about giving gifts. Many people think of a gift as a "give me." They do not receive a "gift" as much as they acquire a "thing." What I mean is that when a person expects a gift and it's not quite what they thought it should be, their mind wanders to the idea that, "I can go exchange it and get something I really wanted. I know that I have been guilty of this in the past. We don't see the gift as a symbol of the love of the person behind it. It ceases to be a gift and becomes a requirement.

Just as bad is the thought by the giver that I will just get "anything" and if they don't like it, they can take it back. This usually happens when we don't know a person well or it seems they have everything.We feel pressure to buy something - anything. However, a gift is special because it is unwarranted and not required. It is presented to a person not for anything they have done but simply because the giver wanted to give. There is a joy in taking someone by surprise and giving knowing that nothing was done to deserve it.

So, I think you know where I am going with this.  In this Christmas season, there are many gifts given but the 1st Christmas there was only 1. God himself showed up and gifted us with his presence. He surprised us with unmerited favor. We did nothing to deserve it and he certainly didn't make this effort lightly thinking if we didn't want it, we could exchange it.  Friends, there is only 1 way. There is only 1 gift good enough. We might reject it but the gift is still given.

 What is your response?  Have you joyfully received it?  Have you opened it to know the wonderful love of the Father?  If not, why? It was sent just for you.

MERRY CHRISTMAS

I love the end of the year and the opportunity it gives us to look back and see all that God has done in our lives and through our lives. When we began Be The One two years ago, we were following the desire of God’s heart. The bible says, “I will not leave you as orphans…”  We believe that God is moving to bring children into families and thereby into a relationship with His son Jesus. It is a privilege to partner with God on this mission and I am so thankful when people respond to his prompting and give to Be The One.

Why do we work to bring children into forever families? Why do we tell our stories of adoption? Why do we give out grants to families on the journey to their child? It is only because of the One. 

The 1 who gives us life,

The 1 who sets us free,

The 1 who sacrificed everything,

The 1 who forgives us our sins,

The 1 who lavishes us with love and grace…… Jesus.

 When you know the mercy you have been shown, I mean really know it, then you will eagerly embrace the mission of helping others find that same grace and mercy. We would welcome any end of the year donation you feel called to give. All the money will be used to help bring another child home.

The Board of Be The One wishes you a Merry Christmas and a Joyous New year!

Mary Beth              Janice             Carol

            Sara                    Mary