Last Thursday was our final Scripture class for the school year. The school held a morning tea to thank all the volunteer teachers.
During the event, one of the Scripture teachers announced that she would not be returning next year. After 15 years it was time to step down.
This came as a surprise to almost everyone.
Without hesitation, the principal walked over and handed her a beautifully wrapped gift, thanking her for her years of contribution.
I found myself thinking, Where did that gift come from? That kind of readiness doesn’t happen by accident.
Then it dawned on me. The principal must intentionally keep pre-wrapped gifts ready. Why? Because she has already decided what kind of school she wants to lead — one that is generous, honouring, and public in its appreciation.
She lives ready for moments of recognition.
That simple moment got me thinking:
What am I routinely ready for?
What am I known for as a follower of Jesus?
What do I have prepared in advance?
This Christmas I decided to be ready with something simple — an invitation card to watch the Jesus Film.
I printed 500 cards.
Now, before you picture me carrying around a brick-sized pile of cards — I didn’t. Each time I left the house, I simply guessed how many I might need for that trip.
I also gave bundles to friends who lead churches so they could distribute them through their networks.
And I even handed some to Christians who aren’t naturally evangelistic. I asked them, “Is there one friend you could give this to before Christmas?” Almost every person said, “Yes — I could do that.”
For me, giving these cards wasn’t an event — it became a routine habit during December:
- at the doctor’s office
- at the butcher
- while handing out church hampers
- with neighbours
- with believers I was coaching
It became part of how I moved through life.
It reminded me that fruitfulness often grows from small habits we prepare ahead of time.
Some churches will spend thousands of dollars on large events — and God uses those too: to communicate vision, to build unity, to show the community something of who Jesus is, and to train people in working together.
But alongside those big moments, I’ve found that what multiplies most is the everyday readiness of ordinary disciples.
So here’s my question this week:
What is your “pre-wrapped present” — your everyday habit of readiness?
Maybe it’s:
- a question you always ask
- a verse you keep ready
- a prayer you regularly offer
- an invitation card
- a simple act of kindness
Whatever it is, what are you routinely prepared to do? And what might God be asking you to be ready with next year?
I’m already praying about next Christmas — it will need to be something new from this year. But the point remains the same:
God loves to use prepared disciples.
May He help each of us live ready.
P.S. Who do you think would be encouraged by this email? Forward it to them and let them know they can walk alongside experienced cross-cultural evangelists by visiting: https://hereslife.com/encouragement