2 Timothy 1:11-12 ESV
For which I was appointed a preacher and apostle and teacher, which is why I suffer as I do.
As I sit and reflect about my own walk with Christ I am reminded that each of us have different gifts and talents. Upon reading my daily devotional from The Upper Room, today’s devotional was entitled “Sing Your Song.” Even though I don’t sing in the praise team or choir, I do try to worship through singing. It makes my heart fill with joy and gladness to be able to put words into a sweet sound heard by our Lord. I don’t have a professional singing voice, but God hears it with great joy and knows that it comes from my heart.
My gift is of writing and teaching small children. I delight in seeing those little eyes light up when you speak about Jesus and the wonderful stories of ordinary people doing great things for Christ through his power in them. Each day I want to continue to be “childlike” in my reading of the word and to see that I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.
Several years ago I went on a spiritual retreat, Walk to Emmaus. As I heard the teachings and sang wonderful songs of praise, I remembered during my life all the times that Jesus had walked so closely with me and I had not recognized him. Each day he walks closer and closer and he begins to mold and shape me into his likeness. With each pruning and season, I can see what things he wants me to change and what areas that I have grown in and that he is promoting me to other areas of service to the church and my community.
My own son was given an affirmation of praise in his decision to wear a t-shirt from a summer activity which involved my church. This praise came from the principal of his school. He has started middle school this year and with this new adventure also comes more challenges and I try to remind him that he is in Christ and that he will be protected daily by prayer and his desire to do the right thing. Middle School is a hard transition for some children, but with prayer from parents and the praise of those around him who also believe in Christ, I believe his school days are much easier to bear.
I was also reminded of my duty to teach adults about Christ recently while cleaning at a local manufacturing plant. I was not sure of why I was there and why I needed to be doing such a menial task, but it became more apparent that we are sent to the places where there is much need in regards to the kingdom. Another Sister in Christ could see Christ in me and reminded me that she too was there to bring others closer to Christ. From the moment I met her, I knew there was something different about her and we came together to share our faith during a short break.
Regardless of what you do in regards to employment, there are opportunities to share Christ with others. I am fortunate to teach at my church Day School and even though I would like to just stay within those walls at times, I know that I have been called to reach out to the lost in many areas. Wherever I go and whatever I do, I am called to preach the good news of salvation to all. I had to come to grips of sorts with the idea of being outside of my comfort zone in some areas and to be strong in my faith and willing to share about God’s goodness.
My prayer for you today is that you remember everywhere you go, that you are called to teach others about God’s love and goodness. Whether you are the CEO or the janitor, you can reach others around you.
