…the one who waters will himself be watered.

It’s quite an appropriate time of year to consider giving and receiving. I’ve gratefully received a flurry of Christmas gifts from my students and the 5^th box of Favourites has been lodged in the pantry.

…the one who waters will himself be watered. Proverbs 11:25

This proverb uses the imagery of watering as a way to teach us about giving. It invokes ideas of gardening and growing. A farmer can only enjoy the fruits of harvest if the crop is cared for.

Ideally the gifts we give should help the recipient grow. If our gift stifles or hinders then it is not a good gift.  As watering is essential for plants to grow, giving is essential for us to grow. This comparison directs us elsewhere in the Bible. Jesus brings both elements together when talking about God:

You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be children of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that? And if you greet only your own people, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that? Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect. Matthew 5:43-48

God gives. God gives life to everyone; regardless of the way we live. It is a sign that God is willing to give us life without end, if only we would humbly accept it.

God waters. He sends rain on everyone without prejudice. The Sun shines on Scrooge and Tiny Tim. Jesus, in his words, is encouraging us to give to everyone – not just our family and friends. This can be a challenge. Give to strangers. Give to enemies. Think of the person you dislike the most and give them a good gift today. Easy?

When we give in this way we show ourselves as children of God – who gives generously to all without reproach (James 1:5). This is the perfection we have been called to. To give completely. To give openly to all who may need our help and assistance regardless of where or who they are.

“God bless us, every one!” Tiny Tim, A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens

18 Dec This entry was published on December 18, 2010 at 4:21 am and is filed under Uncategorized. Bookmark the permalink. Follow any comments here with the RSS feed for this post.