Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.
2 Corinthians 9:7-8
CREATIVELY SERVING OTHERS
God has given me opportunities to share my creative gifts with others over the past few years. Not only do the receivers appreciate the gifts but giving brings me joy. Friends have also blessed me by sharing their creative gifts. These include small paintings, notecards and crocheted items.
Serving others by giving almost comes naturally to me because my mother set a good example. She loved making things for others, and it gave her great joy. My friends always felt at home when they came to visit because she was so hospitable. Through the years she set the example of creatively serving others and bringing joy.
My mom taught me how to crochet when I was young, but I don’t remember showing much interest. Later I crocheted mostly dishcloths, but I did try making mittens for my then young daughters. Time went by and crocheting fell by the wayside.
A RENEWED INTEREST
Some time later, when we lived with my mom for a couple of years, she and I worked together to make afghans for my daughters as Christmas gifts. That same year, we hosted a Christmas party for the women in the church and gave each of them creative gifts of crocheted coasters.
Early in 2020, my interest in crocheting was renewed. With every project, my excitement grew as I learned new stitches and tried new patterns. There were plenty of mistakes made, hours of untangling yarn that had become twisted together, countless times of taking out stitches and starting over. But it all helped teach me patience and attention to detail. As projects were finished, I found joy when I gave these creative gifts to my friends and family.
GIFTS OF CROCHETED ITEMS
A friend of mine, owner and designer of Rows and Roses Yarn and Fiber, designed some of the patterns I used. She was a wonderful cheerleader as she encouraged and helped me by demonstrating stitches and answering questions. Her joy was an inspiration as she willingly gave of herself. It was never about competition but about cheering each other on.
(Please join me at Chronic Joy to read the rest of the post and find two free patterns!)
Here’s a sneak peek at one of the patterns:
You are very talented. Thank you for sharing your gifts.
Thank you so much, Melissa! You are a great encourager. Blessings to you!