Gifts

As I was reading Romans 12, I tend to stop at my favorite, verse 2- "Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will." There are so many influences in this world that pull me away from Jesus. But today I didn't stop there.

As I read on, Paul talks about how we are to use our gifts to serve, especially in verses 6-8.
"We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your faith; if it is serving, then serve; if it is teaching, then teach; if it is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously; if it is to lead, do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully." 

However, when we were in the DR, we did everything together as one body. We hauled rocks to build a bridge, we did dishes, cleaned toilets, scrubbed floors, played with kids, taught VBS, sang worship songs, prayed with people at the hospital, painted the inside of a school, shared our faith with people of all ages, you name it. 

Were some of us better at some things than others? You bet! I marveled watching Troy knowing almost no Spanish interacting with people at the hospital, praying over them and giving them great comfort. I was so impressed with Jeffrey who at only age 15 could command a room of wiley inner city kids and lead them in prayer. I was moved by the teens who never complained once about working hard or sweating in miserable conditions and instead of resting or showering went straight to the children's home to play with the small children there.

Too often, I believe we use the "spiritual gifts" argument to bow out of doing God's will. We say, like Moses, that we aren't articulate, why will anyone listen to us, we are bad at expressing our faith or talking to others, or can't handle groups of kids, or otherwise don't have the skills to help. I mean, I'm not talented, so what does God need me for? I'll just let someone else take care of that.

I'll tell you why - WE miss out. God's will will be carried out, don't worry, we just won't be a part of it. Furthermore, I can't tell you what I learned just being a part of serving, especially in ways I never imagined serving. I feel completely awkward sharing my faith with a stranger, especially someone of a different age, race, culture than me. But that is how I grow in my faith and talents for the kingdom.

God has a plan for you too, and maybe just maybe you have some real talents He wants to surprise you with :)