Buying gifts for an 11 year old boy

We have gifts that differ according to the grace given us. Romans 12:7

I’m in search of the perfect gift for my oldest son who will turn 11 next week. I’m not old enough to have an 11 year old but that’s what his birth certificate says so I guess I’ll put that many candles on his cake.

He in many ways is my easy child. When I asked him what he wanted for his birthday he said, “I dunno maybe a basketball.” Now his younger brother has already asked for an ipad and every video gaming unit made and I swear the baby girl asked to get a cell phone at the grocery store last night, but a basketball? I could hug him!

Of course this also makes things difficult as well. He deserves something nicer than a basketball. He’s a great student; he’s polite, well mannered etc etc. I thought about all those big ticket items that his younger brother would drool over and thought – those just aren’t him. At least not yet.

Finding a gift for someone is not easy. Not all 11 year old boys like the same thing. I’m still searching for that perfect gift that says, “I love you and want to celebrate with you.”

I have to wonder if God has this much trouble passing out spiritual gifts. Does he say, “Hmmm preaching will be used really well by Shannon but I’ll give Ann teaching so that she can use all that knowledge she likes to acquire.”?

I don’t know, but I do know that we all have a part to play and that each of us should look at our gifts as the term describes – gifts. Gifts say “I love you and want to help you celebrate.” If we can say, “Thanks! Let’s party!” Then I believe we’re on the road to appreciating what God has given us.

Until Everyone Hears,