Do you know that feeling when someone opens up a gift from you, and they are truly grateful and happy to receive it? I want to hold onto that moment forever. Whether it’s the gift of a handmade card or a new baby doll, it’s always joyful to give to someone, knowing you made them smile that day. Don’t get me wrong, I enjoy receiving gifts too. I love it when someone thoughtfully and intentionally chooses to gift something to me, especially something from the heart. We fed a friend's bunny recently while they were out of town, and they made us a beautiful and delicious loaf of homemade sourdough bread. I know that gift came straight from the heart and took a lot of love and care. But nothing beats the joy I feel when I give to others. Do you feel that joy in your heart when you donate to a local charity or drop your check in the offering plate? God wants you to. 2 Corinthians 9:6-7 says: The point is this: whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And it’s true. He loves a cheerful giver. He holds dearly the one that gives with their heart. Paul tells us to excel in giving, just as we do in grace and love. So next time you give, hold onto that feeling for a little longer. You don’t have to boast or brag, but you can hold in your heart that you cheerfully gave to further the Kingdom of God!