There is a legend of a rich man who sent a message to a poor
neighbor: “I want to give you a farm.” The neighbor set out
to get it, but carried with him what he thought was a bag of
gold. Arriving at the rich man’s mansion, he said: “I got your
message. I want your farm. Here is the gold to buy it.” “Let me
see your gold,” said the generous donor. It was not even silver.
The poor man’s eyes filled with tears. “Alas, I am undone!”
“Why, it is not even copper,” he added; “it is only ashes. I
have nothing to pay. Will you give it me?” “Why, yes,” said
the rich man; “that was my offer. Will you accept the farm as
a gift?” “Yes, indeed,” replied the poor man, “and a thousand
blessings on your kindness.”
(1215)
=Gift and Giver=--See LIKENESS OF GOD.
=Gift, Using Our Best=--See ADVANTAGE, WORKING TO THE BEST.
=Gifts=--See LOVE’S ACCEPTABLE OFFERING.