The church is at its best when the Holy Spirit is allowed to inspire, motivate and equip every member to discover their unique gifts and utilize them freely in ministry. Planning, accountability and order are good things in any organization. I like to know what’s coming next as much anybody! But the most effective ministries I’ve witnessed are those that arise because someone has the confidence to share their gifts so that the church is strengthened and the world is blessed. I’ve seen lay leaders with gifts for administration bring financial health to cash-strapped congregations. I’ve seen churches follow the lead of members with the gift of evangelism and go every week to serve a meal and hold services in a nearby trailer park. I’ve heard lay people with a gift for preaching deliver better sermons than I’ve heard from any television evangelist. Centenary is still blessed by the Smethie family’s amazing effort to move beyond the grief of the death of their son over fifty years ago, and hear a call to utilize their spiritual gifts to begin a young adult ministry which raised up a whole generation of former—and yes current—leaders and servants who have been a blessing to this church, and in turn to the world. Paul envisions a church where every person receives the spiritual gifts God gives through the Holy Spirit, and joyfully uses those gifts to make Christ’s love real to the world. What would our church look like if we based our ministry on our gifts, rather than what we perceive to be our deficiencies? What joy could be yours if you acknowledged the gifts God has given you and allowed God to work through you to make a difference in the lives of others?
Thought for the day: God has given you a gift the world needs!
Prayer: O God, help us to receive the gifts you give us and help us to experience the joy that comes from using our gifts to bless others. Amen.
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