05-05-23

ECCLESIOLOGICAL ETCHINGS
May 5, 2023
As a kid, do you remember being envious of another kid’s talent/skill? There was the kid who ran faster or could jump further; there was one whose math or science skills were ahead of everyone else; there was the one who was funny and always had something humorous to say at the right moment; there was the one who was a pretty good dancer even in Jr. High. I’m sure there were many other talents that left me jealous and coveting whatever they might be. We might have downplayed or even dismissed our own talents because they were not as cool or desirable as others. Sadly, I don’t believe things have changed a whole lot. In the life of the church, there are certain Spiritual Gifts that receive a lot of accolades and time in the spotlight, while others do not. It's no surprise that many of those quiet and behind-the-scenes gifts are the ones that have the greatest impact. The Apostle Paul, on more than one occasion, felt the need to respond to the arrogance around Spiritual Gifts—my gift is better than your gift. He used different metaphors and faithful expressions to not only call out the nonsense but to celebrate every gift, no matter what that gift might be. The gifts we have are the gifts we’ve been given, and though they may not be the gift we would have chosen, sometimes they are the gift the world needs us to bring. The gift you have was gifted to you with a purpose, and the purpose will in some way make the world a little better.

​I seek the help of your Spirit, O God, as I discern and embrace the gifts you have given me. I can only put them to use if I believe they were given to me for a reason, so I trust your choice in this matter. Amen.