Some people might think that because they aren’t public speakers and don’t teach a class or lead a ministry team, they are not as valuable to the mission of Jesus.
But think about people who come in during the week and clean the toys in the church nursery? Those people are just as important as the people who teach the kids. Think about people who show up unannounced and pull weeds around the church property? We need those people just as much as we need the people whose names are listed on the staff page on the church website. Think about people who regularly visit homebound members? Those people are just as important as the people who are up front singing or playing instruments. All are important! All are needed. Let us support and encourage one another. Care for one another equally!!!
Paul’s illustration of the body reminds us that while some gifts were greater, all are important.
Hands could easily start to go around acting like they are more important because of the unique elements of their role. They could argue, “Well, we put food in the mouth, and without us, none of you would get the energy you need to keep going. So we are best. You better start seeing things our way, and you better accommodate our needs first of all.”
This happens in the church too. We can start to think like that about our gifts, our role, our importance. This passage is a clear teaching that it is not about me. It is about putting Jesus in the position of pre-eminence.
I am so encouraged how I see people using their gifts at Faith Church. I hear about people paying for other people’s bills in a time of need. They are using the gift of giving. Some keep the use of their gifts very private. I greatly respect that.
From my viewpoint it is so cool to see how people of all shapes and sizes, hands, feet, eyes, and ears are using their gifts for the Lord!
If you don’t know your gifts, one of the best ways to start learning how the Spirit has gifted you is to start serving. Try out many different areas of service. Even ones that seem a bit scary. Serve in a church ministry for a year. Help out behind the scenes. As you serve, ask God to reveal to you more about your gifts. Ask for input from others around you.
All are gifted, all are important. Let’s use our gifts to glorify God, to bring unity to the church, and to care for one another in need.
Photo by Gift Habeshaw on Unsplash
Engaging Scripture 