Gifts: Visible Signs of True Feelings

Why do people give gifts? Because gifts are visible signs---tangible expressions---of the reality of our true feelings and intentions. Sure, we love our loved ones, but it is also in the material and perceptible signs of love---touchable gifts---that clues about how we sincerely feel for the other is hinted, is initially understood. Not that we value more the material expressions; but that we find means to show the truth of our inner dispositions; regardless the monetary cost of the gift. God sent his only begotten Son, Jesus, a sacrificial and redeeming gift---tangible in human history---to show how much He loves us and that He is with us. That same Gift of God Himself is offered to us in the Eucharist, not merely as a sign pointing to Christ but the reality of Christ Himself received as bread and wine -- nourishing and sustaining us in the Divine Truth of God's Love.

Making Others Feel Special

pic from http://www.hem-of-his-garment-bible-study.org

Here's a leadership perspective I heard from author Betsy Myers, "People may not remember what you said or even what you did, but they will remember how you made them feel."  Emotions have a way of imprinting in our consciousness.  This also puts in view on how we relate with the people around us.  Good leaders motivate their people by also being sensitive with their feelings.  I notice that effective leaders talk to individuals as if there was no other agenda besides your concern.  They will zoom in to you and will do their best to immediately address a concern.

I am reminded by a Bible scene where Jesus called Zacchaeus who was up in a Sycamore tree. When Jesus reached the spot, he looked up and said to him, "Zacchaeus, come down immediately. I must stay at your house today (Luke 19:5)."

I can imagine how Zacchaeus must have felt.  I believe this is how the Lord relates to us.  He calls upon us and wants to be with us in the home of our hearts, as if we were the only agenda in His mind.  Let us then rejoice for we have a God who is omnipresent. He is ready to listen and make us truly feel special.