A Different Kind Of Birthday Gift

A Different Kind of Birthday Gift

Give generously to the poor, not grudgingly, for the LORD your God will bless you in everything you do.

Deuteronomy 15:10

I was recently visiting with my friend Tammy as she recounted the story of her daughter’s ninth birthday. She told me that right before Megan’s birthday, they received a World Vision catalog in the mail, filled with ideas for practical things you could donate to others around the world, such as livestock, medical supplies, or school supplies. She suggested to her daughter that instead of presents, they ask party guests to bring a donation. Then they’d take time at the party to pick things out of the catalog to send to people who were in need. Her daughter readily agreed to the idea.

My friend went on to explain, “The day of the party came, and because it was fall, we did a lot of outdoor games like three-legged and gunnysack races. While we were having pizza, the kids sat down in groups. I showed them the catalog and reminded them that instead of gifts, they had brought money with them that we were going to pool together to buy items for families around the world.”

While the kids spent time deciding what they would like to give collectively, Tammy and her husband, Troy, announced that they would match the amount that was given. Tammy told me what stood out to her the most was how “amazing it was to watch and listen while the kids talked about the items in the magazine. It was like they got it—they understood that there are folks who are less fortunate or who live very differently than we do, and we can impact them.”

We are encouraged to give generously and happily to the poor, not grudgingly. Part of the blessing of this kind of giving is that it can become contagious. I am sure that those children, if asked, would still remember Megan’s birthday party where they got to pick out gifts for those in need. Oftentimes, our giving can start a wave of giving in those around us, and showing someone else generosity and kindness on your birthday is a perfect way to do so.

—Kendra

— Today’s Act of Kindness —

To commemorate your birthday or some other special occasion this year, donate a gift to someone else.