I am finally able to share a little about our visit to U. S. Mint with my Dad a few weeks back. It was a great tour. We received a real penny. And a sportscaster for our local Roots sports station was there to do a story about a special coin they were minting.

A special coin commemorating the Baseball Hall of Fame was in production. This coin is curved and the first of its kind. One side boasts a baseball, the other side a ball glove. This unique coin was designed by a civilian and are being snatched up very quickly. There were none in the gift shop.

The reason I have not been able to share this with you is that I purchased one of these coins for my husband for our anniversary. He comes from a family of baseball players and two of his family members are in the Baseball Hall of Fame.

Needless to say, he was thrilled with this gift and he was finally surprised! I believe I even saw a little tear in his eye.

Are you sometimes surprised by the gifts you’ve received from God? Just look at forgiveness for instance. Aren’t you amazed at what God has forgiven you for? I certainly am. Maybe for you it’s the peace you receive from God. Or perhaps it is grace.

When I am confronted by the gifts God has given, I am truly surprised and amazed that He would give as He has. God’s gifts are good and perfect as James tells us. “Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.” (James 1:17 – NIV)

So, let’s take a look at some of these good and perfect gifts.

Himself (Romans 8:30)

His Son (John 3:16)

His Spirit (John 15:26; John 14:17; John 14:26)

Salvation (Ephesians 2:8)

Forgiveness of sin (Hebrews 8:12)

Purification from sin (1 John 1:7)

Eternal life (John 14:2; Romans 6:23)

Wisdom (James 1:5)

Love, new name, hope (1 John 3:1-3)

Spiritual gifts to bring praise to God (1 Peter 4:10-11)

As I mentioned, these are just a few. What is your favorite gift from God? If it’s not listed here, let me know. I’d love to hear what good and perfect gift God has blessed you with.

The little coin I gave to my husband was inexpensive. It was thoughtful, but it didn’t cost me much. God paid the highest price for the gifts He lavishes upon us. Guess what? God thinks we are worth it.

Grace and peace be yours in abundance,

Donna