Dear Martin,
Welcome back to Gifted! This week we’re talking about something simple, unexpected and often overlooked: the orange in the stocking. You know the one: squashed a bit at the bottom, not as flashy as chocolate coins or gadgets, but still a small, bright, refreshing treat.
The orange is a reminder that the little things matter. In one of the Bible readings for next Sunday (Matthew 3:1–12), John the Baptist encourages us to “bear fruit”. Simple instructions. Live in a way that blesses others.
Sometimes that fruit looks like kindness, patience or a smile when someone least expects it. You might feel ordinary, but to someone else your small act of care is the sweetest part of their day. The best bit of their stocking.
This week, notice the 'fruit' around you. Thank someone for their thoughtfulness. Appreciate a quiet kindness. And remember: the everyday gifts – small, simple, ordinary – often matter the most.
