Friday, May 28, 2010

Leftovers... Yuck!

I don't like leftovers. I don't know whether it's that I don't like to eat the same thing over and over, or that reheated food just doesn't taste like the fresh (there are a few exceptions to this rule and the leftovers are actually better - like chili), or that we used to have leftover meals where all the different types of leftovers came out of the fridge. Maybe it's all of those reasons.

I also don't like people leftovers. You know... the people who only call when there is absolutely nothing better to do and no one else to talk to. That may be an exaggeration, but sometimes it can feel that way. I think there is a balance. I don't expect to be put in first place in anyone's life. And I don't think it's wrong to give left overs from last night, if that's all there is. But sometimes, it would be nice to be invited to the party.

This happened to me recently, and it really made me take a look at the way I interact with the people I care about. Do I save the best parts of me for me and give others what's left over? Or do I spend the best of my time and energy on loving others?

Of course, we should be giving our best to God first, expecting nothing in return. Then, He replenishes our supply so we can give to others. I wish I could say I have this part down, but I don't...

I wonder how God feels about the leftovers I serve Him?

6 comments:

  1. Karen,
    I think your thoughts on this topic are very insightful. Being the leftover person is never a good feeling. As a working mom, I often feel that God, my husband and my little ones get the tiny morsels left over at the end of my day. If you ever figure out a good balance, pass some tips on to me! I think our humanity often wins out. If only we could love without expectations of reciprocity and conditions the way Christ loves us.

    ReplyDelete
  2. P.S. I don't much like leftover food either!

    ReplyDelete
  3. sounds like you need to have leftovers prepared by me... :)

    funny, as i was reading i couldn't help to think how do i bring that call into something positive verse frustrating for me...

    i find those calls extremely frustrating and tend to be less then talkative with the person - that's not what God has called us to do even if we are just filling a gap...

    i guess i need to make sure i fill that gap with His love and support... rather then my selfish - lack of concern for my brother/sister...

    and as i type i know the ones He wants me to be better about respecting and loving...

    Thanks!

    ReplyDelete
  4. I enjoyed your blog posts, Karen. "Leftovers" really made me think... thanks for sharing with me! ((Hugs))

    ReplyDelete
  5. Ouch! The leftovers I give God. That hits me a little bit.

    ReplyDelete
  6. Sorry if my leftovers made anyone sick :) Thanks for stopping by.

    ReplyDelete