Blinded by blessings

Photo Randy Vanderveen, Grande Prairie, Alberta A cow stands unmoving as a farmer spreads feed in the form of chopped hay in a corral on a farm east of Grande Prairie (top frame) , eventually being completely covered in flying feed (bottom frame).It is funny how easy it is to judge how stupid a cow can be — not moving and eventually being covered by feed being spread out in its pen.

But often I am like that cow. What about you?

Being a Canadian citizen I have been blessed just by the virtue of being born in this nation.

And yet the blessings don't stop there. I have a loving wife, healthy, beautiful daughters, a home, friends, health for myself and freedom as a citizen. 

And yet sometimes, like this cow which appears to want to be selfishly covered in feed, I sometimes am reluctant to share with those who need it. I have such an abundance of blessings that sometimes I am blinded by the gift and forget to keep my eyes on the Giver.

Christmas is usually thought of as a time of giving, but really Easter should be remembered for generosity even more.

After all it was at this time of year we remember why God gave his Son for us and while Christ's life on earth and his ministry are important, it was His death and resurrection that were both the reason for Christmas and Easter and our hope and salvation.

While anything I might give doesn't even compare minutely. At this time of year I can be reminded that if Jesus gave his life for an undeserving me surely I can give of my physical possessions and money to help meet the physical needs of others here in Canada and around the world.

We are often so forgetful. There are plenty of people around us that have needs whether it is a hot meal or perhaps a ride to a doctors appointment.

Even disasters which consumed us, like the Haitian earthquake just 10 weeks ago are almost an afterthought.

Yet the needs of the organizations helping in Haiti and those of the Hatians themselves remain just as pressing.

Why not give this Easter season? Shower someone else with the blessings you have received.