With the Same Hand ~ Give and Thank

Can we give and thank separately?

With the same hand, do we not both receive and give?

Each one must give as he has decided in his heart,

not reluctantly or under compulsion,

for God loves a cheerful giver. 

2 Corinthians 9:7

Sitting side by side, last year's give jar is still being used, but this year, I've added another,
a jar for giving thanks. 

I will give thanks to the LORD with my whole heart;

I will recount all your wonderful deeds.

Psalm 9:1

For many years, we have written our blessings on paper leaves and hung them on a tree,
our Thanksgiving Tree.  It has served as a visual reminder of our blessings throughout the
month of November. 

This year, we wanted our children to form a greater connection between receiving and giving.

Started on October 24, a full month before Thanksgiving Day, our children have had the opportunity each day to give to others and thank God all in the same area.  The jars sit atop the kitchen dry sink.  Side by side, the children are encouraged to give and thank.

Over the past few weeks, I have been surprised, encouraged, and humbled by their giving and thanking.   The teaching and developing of these actions are growing them stronger not only in the children, but in me as well.

~ Dorie