Good morning…
Fifty-eight years ago today, my husband Steve surprised his parents by arriving three weeks early. From the pulpit as a Presbyterian minister, his father was able to announce a double meaning at each Christmas Eve service, “Unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given!”
Fast forward to now. Do you remember that early in December I thoroughly enjoyed a pop-up Christmas shop in the home of my friend? The sale featured treasures from local artists, with proceeds benefitting Blue Skies Ministries, a ministry that offers weeklong beach camps to lift families above the clouds of childhood cancer. I bought a piece of pottery, some jewelry, and a couple articles of clothing for myself and our girls, and, on a wonderful whim, I decided to splurge on a unique painting for Steve’s Christmas Eve birthday.
I was drawn to this large, mixed media creation as a way to celebrate Steve’s ministry to the Atlanta community. Far away from our midwestern roots, God called Steve out of our quiet comfort zone to the hustle and bustle of this multifaceted city. That was in 1995, and Steve’s compassionate care as a school chaplain has steadily supported many kids, teachers, and families since our settling down south. The painting felt like a way to say, “I admire how you live out God’s love in this sometimes-chaotic community.”
It all felt quite awesome, until it did not. That night I could not sleep, thinking, “This birthday surprise could go horribly wrong.” Worrying, “Even though I love it and it benefits an awesome cause, I can’t believe I made a big purchase without consulting Steve.” Obsessing, “Since I absolutely adore this textured, real life painting, I wonder if this gift is more for me than for him.” My mind reeled and reeled, circled and circled, hemmed and hawed all through the night.
In the morning, I sensed from the Spirit an important truth. Sometimes we buy gifts for ourselves rather than for others. Instead of waiting to surprise Steve on his birthday, I was surprised by the urge to show him the painting right away. I got the gorgeous painting out of his hiding spot and Steve and I discussed at length our priorities for the year’s birthday/Christmas purchases. The renewed commitment to decide, discuss, discern big choices together as a couple became the true birthday gift. Shifting focus from my own spur-of-the-moment desire to listen better to our rich shared perspective is an everyday gift that will keep on giving.
Take great joy in the Eternal! His gifts are coming, and they are all your heart desires! (Psalm 37:4, VOICE).
…Sue…
P.S. I humbly texted the artist right away, and I told her the story of my sleepless night which brought about an important shift. Graciously she agreed to meet me at the parking lot of O.K. Cafe and instead of a check, I returned to her this passionate painting which had called to my spirit. I explained to her that I write a morning blog each day and that some day I would share the story of her kind gift of grace, including her website link so others can benefit from her amazing talent. So, enjoy exploring Christy Holmes’ whimsical website, and with every joyful purchase please tell Christy, “Sue Allen sent me!”
