Gifts

“His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness."

2 Peter 1:3

I spent Christmas visiting my family out west. On Christmas morning two of my grandchildren spent four hours opening their presents. It wasn’t that they had a lot of presents, but just that when they opened each one, they wanted to play with it. I was impressed that no matter what the gift, a 100 piece puzzle, a scooter or a game, the children enjoyed and appreciated it. There were remaining presents just waiting to be opened, yet they focused on what was in their hand and were not distracted by what was yet to come. They savored every moment and we along with them.

My question, as I thought about my grandchildren’s object lesson to me is, “Will I savor and appreciate each gift that appears in 2010 regardless of the cost or the purpose? Will I focus on what is in my hand, rather than longing for something past or future?”  Some decisions I make may be costly yet the fruit and reward will be a gift. A script that I am given may have unknown purposes designed by God, and contain parts that I don’t particularly enjoy playing, yet in God’s plan, it is a gift. An opportunity, disguised as a challenge or problem, will be gift. Yes, there will be many gifts to open: stretching and growing experiences, learning new things, friendship,God’s faithfulness, and trusting and knowing God’s grace or wisdom in new ways.

As we enter 2010, may we know the Giver in a deeper way and savor in the gifts He sends our way, capturing the present because He is there and loves us with an unfailing love.

Reflection: How do today’s thoughts relate to your reflection on last year’s “gifts” and your approach to 2010?

White Pizza

I had two Christmases this year with family. I mentioned one out west in my devotional, but we celebrated a second Christmas in PA with the rest of my family including my other two grandchildren—a gift! We enjoyed New Year’s Eve with pizza and snacks. Susan made this recipe—delicious!

1 ½ lbs bread dough, thawed

1 cup whole milk ricotta

4 cloves garlic, finely minced

2 cups frozen broccoli flowerets, thawed

3 cups mozzarella cheese

Spread dough on large oiled cookie sheet and let dough rise. Spread ricotta on top and sprinkle garlic over top. Place pieces of thawed broccoli cuts on top. Cut flowerets in half if pieces are large. Season with dried basil and salt. Cover with mozzarella cheese.

Bake at 375 for 20 minutes or until cooked and browned.