A Gift

I've come to realize that even if your love language isn't gift giving the act of gift giving is universal to express an appreciation of the giver to the givee.

We live in a small town - one of those where everyone knows everyone. We have a few restaurants that we frequent, one of those being the Chinese restaurant. For our town to have a Chinese eatery is a pretty big deal, but old hat now. We've gotten to know the ethnic employees working there and even though they keep to themselves pretty much, we try get to know them.

Peter is the Manager/owner, his "wife", Mae and their two little boys, Matthew and Jesse. They have a waitress, Nillie. All of these names are, of course, Americanized versions of their actual Chinese names. There are some other fellows who work in the kitchen who we only see occasionally and greet each other with the laughter of an inside joke. We miss Biker Bob, who was an older fellow who rode from one end of town to the other on first a peddle bicycle and then an electric scooter. Peter loved the name we gave him and it stuck. He spoke no English or at least pretended very well, but he was a fun, friendly sort.

Peter is out going and is easily engaged. His English skills are very good. Mae, not so much. She has little English and is withdrawn for this reason, but she is sweet and faithful. Nillie is young and actually from New York City. She has left behind family to be here to work. She is kind and very enduring.

My husband has decided that he likes the hot tea and she brings it as soon as she sees us come through the door. About a month ago she brings us a new brew - green tea leaves and an exquisite flavored tea. Last week we asked her about it, and in her broken English she explains that this is her private stock and is pleased that we like it so well. Soon, she brings us a beautiful green box and explains that this is ours, she wants us to have it. We try to refuse the generosity, but she insists and makes sure that we know that it's best for breakfast.

I am touched beyond belief to think that this girl who works so hard and sees little of her money would give us this tea without expecting anything but our joy in return.

That's exactly the way it is with God's gift of Grace. He gave Jesus, His only Son. Jesus gave His very life, for the very joy of it.

Thank you, Papa, for your gift of love to me that I may know you.