Rachel Whisman

Every day, one of my students in particular greets me with either a sheet she has colored from the night before, a kind note, a drawing, or a gentle hug. She is faithful to do so and never reluctant. A soft smile beams across her face as she gives it to me, and warmth seems to follow her wherever she walks. Her kindness and gentleness are evident to all. It reminds me of what Charles Spurgeon penned when he encountered an older man with a similar demeanor, saying, “What a lump of sunshine that man was!” How fitting that statement is to this student in my classroom. 

Her generosity takes my mind to Romans 5:5, “God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us.” Poured out, in the original wording, means “to bestow” and “run greedily out.” We see that God is not reluctant to do so, but is extravagant in his giving. He is intentional and generous. When my student rushes with enthusiasm to hand me her artwork, her niceties reflect her creator. The force and motivation with which we do these sweet gestures stem from us being image bearers. 

Her gifts are temporary, though. They will eventually stop in due season. She will move on to another grade level year after year and then into middle school and beyond. However, God’s love is not that way. It is steadfast, faithful, eternal, and unwavering. It is a well that will never run dry. It will never be exhausted or empty for you. As believers, we have been bestowed with this great gift that has redeemed us and will satisfy us forever. Just when we think we have gotten a taste of its riches, He will surprise us more with a love that is far richer than we could ever dream of.

“I say to the Lord, ‘You are my Lord; I have no good apart from you.’ The Lord is my chosen portion and my cup; you hold my lot. The lines have fallen for me in pleasant places; indeed, I have a beautiful inheritance.” Psalm 16:2,5-6