A gift is something that does not involve a repayment plan.
I have a personal dislike for the term “gift exchange”. I agree that it is often used as a figure of speech to define a plan for a function. However, it could easily result in an unemotional exchange of assets. You gift me a hundred dollars. I, in return, will give you five twenty-dollar bills.
We hear the term, “He’s very good at making money.” If, indeed, someone “made money”, it would be counterfeit. A misused offering, or generosity extended, may also be counterfeit.
Luke 6:38 – Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again.
To me it appears that the difference is in a person’s heart. Personally, I am laying no claim to be one that gives graciously.
Recently in a group class, a relatively new acquaintance participating in the course commented on my friendly disposition. My wife was sitting in the group. My answer to this young lady was that if she were to ask my wife, Lucille, she would find that I had another side to my disposition. Perhaps, in a sense, that sums it up. We were made people of choice.
Another place in the Bible it speaks that sweet water and bitter do not come from the same well. (James 3:11). When my values are misplaced, I am liable to lose the joy of giving of myself.
A last thought on “gift exchange”. Really, it depends on the heart of the giver.
