Article December 20, 1958 Issue

GIFTS THAT HEAL AND BLESS

HARRY ABELES

At times right-thinking men and women become much concerned about the large part that gift giving plays in daily life. They may wonder where to draw the line between the gift that is given with a good motive and the one that borders on self-interest and savors of undue influence.

Moses saw the danger of accepting gifts in public life, for he commanded under God's guidance (Deut. 16:19), "Thou shalt not wrest judgment; thou shalt not respect persons, neither take a gift: for a gift doth blind the eyes of the wise, and pervert the words of the righteous."

It is always well to consider the motive behind the giving of gifts. Is the motive to gain favor or an advantage of some kind, to have a feeling of self-satisfaction or a sense of patronage? Is the gift given merely because a present is expected from another? Or does the gift express gratitude, appreciation, and love? Is it intended to heal and to bless?

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