Today is Wednesday, April 9th, 2008; Karen's Korner #1288

Each year for the past eight years, our school's Peer Helpers, middle school students - who work to help the school, community and people - organize a "Senior Night" for grandparents, retirees, and senior citizens. It is a couple of hours when our age group interacts with their age group and us 'oldies' go back to school.
 
Last week was the annual night. Bus rides to and from the event are given. Food is prepared and eaten. Games are played. Classes are offered and selected by us students. Along with the learning, there are lots of prizes given by local merchants, organizations, and individuals. Lots of prizes. It was announced that $3,000 worth of items would be given away. I usually get several of the items.
 
Because we were hosting Jacob and Jaynie Michael from Africa, they went with us to enjoy the festivities. Every place we went, Jaynie won a prize. Jacob won his fair share too. They were having a ball. As was I! But this year, I only had my name or number called once - one small gift certificate. I didn't need anything, but who doesn't enjoy the thrill off winning!
 
When we got home, we each charged through our plastic bags of promotional pads of paper, free pencils, an Iowa map among other things.
 
Then one-by-one, I 'won' a certificate for a free haircut, one chamber gift certificate, then another. Know how I won them? Jacob and Jaynie gave them to us. Know why? They weren't going to be in Clarion long enough to use them all.
 
I couldn't help but think that is how our relationship with God is sometimes. We hope, pray, expect Him to give us what we want, when and where we want it. Directly from the 'number drawn', first hand. Other times, he gives us the same gifts at the hand of a friend, second hand; as they share their bounty with us.
 
Same prizes; same treasured gifts. Just a different mode of delivery. 
 
A number of years ago our minister, Rev. Brockmeyer said, "When you pray, don't always look to the heavens. Sometimes you need to look in your mailbox!"
 
Dear Father in Heaven, thank You that You hear us and answer our prayers. Thank You for all of Your many gifts which You give to each one of us. Help us to enjoy each of those gifts. Help me, help us to recognize each gift which we receive from Your Hand directly and from dozens of other ways. We are blessed! In Jesus Name, Amen.

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