Last night was supposed to be an uneventful evening for me – most likely, a couple hours imprisoned to my desk, working on a much dreaded school project, and my wife, probably keeping Dalyn to a manageable calm and watching her favorite TV show, Prison Break.

But instead, Dona and I were treated to a phenomenal, almost surreal, experience – a Cav’s game from the luxurious Mercedes-Benz Club, an exclusive area up at the top of the arena, which offers an incredible atmosphere, a panoramic view of the crowd and the court action, plus, some of the most unbelievable (all you can eat) grub. The whole night’s package was a gift from my brother-in-law, Jared, who chose to bless us with a fun night out.

Needless to say, as we left the game, I couldn’t help but dwell upon how much that gift meant to me. It was a gift that I knew I would not be able to reciprocate. Plus, it allowed me a date experience that I normally would not have been able to provide. I was grateful. I was lifted. I was reminded that there is power in giving a gift.

So, my life lesson last night was this – If you have the ability and the opportunity to bless someone, then do it! Do you want to prosper (and I don’t just mean financially)? Consider that “a generous man will prosper; he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed.” (Proverbs 11:25 NIV) Do you want to be influential? Again, consider that “everyone is the friend of a man who gives gifts.” (Proverbs 19:6 NIV)

I once heard a saying that goes, “You can’t receive anything with a clinched fist.” Think about that. A giving hand is open, and is therefore postured also to receive. So, if you have much in your pocket, then give of your wealth; and even if you have little to spare, then give of your heart, give of your time, give of your service. Either way, just give. Remember that you may be the spark that rekindles a spirit of hope, or a smile, or a new outlook on life in someone who is completely not expecting it.