2 Corinthians 9:7 “Each person should do as he has decided in his heart—not out of regret or out of necessity, for God loves a cheerful giver.”

When I received the phone call from the Red Cross, asking me to be a blood donor, I was surprised. For some reason, before this call, the idea of giving blood never occurred to me. I became excited about the prospect of sharing the “gift of life”, as the Red Cross called it. I knew I was a very good candidate, for my blood was as uncontaminated as possible. I was anxious the first time I gave, and God sent a wonderful nurse to draw my blood that day. She talked with me the entire time, and before I knew it, the needle was removed.

A few years later I learned about platelet donations. This was much more time consuming and a bigger sacrifice for me, but God gave me a desire to do this. It was a privilege for me to pray for the unknown recipient, asking God to use my platelets in the life of another and that the person receiving them would come to know and love Him as I do.

Finally, I was informed recently that plasma donations were needed on a regular basis, especially in my blood type. I have done this, also, resting in a delightful feeling of a job well done. Sharing something of myself that no one could buy my gift to another- thrilled my heart.

It may seem like a small gift, and many partake of the privilege, but for me it was a wonderful time of sharing what the Lord has given to me.

God has a wonderful plan for you, too. There is something in your life that would be a “gift of life” to another. It might not be blood donations, but… ask God. He will let you know where you are REALLY needed. He will also provide the time or money for you to do His work for others… as long as you live. I believe it!

Marion Smith: noles65@aol.com