The Best Present

One day a new king was placed over a kingdom. He declared that
there would be a time of festivity, and at the end of that time,
each subject would provide him something of value. The king made
available the best meat and drink for his subjects, and they
enjoyed his hospitality for a long period of time.

When the festivities ended, each person approached and made their
presentation to him. Some gave him precious jewels, some gave
large sums of money, others gave great works of art. Those trained
in various arts provided hand-made pieces of the highest quality
material: woodwork, tapestry, metal work, glass work and pottery.
There were so many gifts, there was barely room before his throne.

But, at the end of the line was a small boy. He was very nervous
and was much afraid. As he approached the throne he began to cry.
"Kind Sir", said the lad, "I am poor and I have nothing to offer".
"Nothing at all?" asked the King. "I have no money, no artwork,
no pottery and no jewels. All I can offer you is my life in humble service."
Upon hearing this, the crowd began to murmur.

The King thought for a moment. Then said with a smile, "Money I
have. Jewels I have. All sorts of works of art. As King, I could
command those things and they would be given me. But the greatest
gift I have ever received, is this young lad's. For a life that is
offered in humble service, is the best present of all."

So it is with our Heavenly Father. He does not want our money, jewels,
or works of art (so-called) or any other material thing. He wants our
obedience. He wants our loving service to Him. That is the greatest
gift we can offer, and the only one He truly desires.    [JW]