Day 60: Healing Hands:
"Be strong and immovable. Always work enthusiastically for the Lord, for you know that nothing you do for the Lord is ever useless." —1 Corinthians 15:58
Anderson's lesson today focuses on using the gifts and talents God has given us. He says that God has given each of us certain gifts and talents. "Maybe it's an ear for music, a heart for hospitality, or a special ability to relate to children or teenagers. Whatever it is, [we should] know that it is not merely a gift from God to [us]. It is a gift from God through [us] to those around [us]—a way for [us] to serve and bless others and use [our] talent for God's glory."
Anderson's perspective on gifts and talents is one that was repeated often in my former church. There was a brief moment while I was reading that I flashed back to times when I was (and others were) guilted into working in Kid's Kingdom (our children's ministry) or pressured to figure out just what our gifts and talents were so that we would be sure not to be wasting them—which was seen as sinful. I remember once having to make a list of what we felt our talents and gifts were so that others (the leaders) would know how we might be of greater use to God's Kingdom. I know the leaders had good intentions, but...
Sorry... I had to restrain that line of thinking because it was making my throat tighten and my stomach clench. Plus, I am actually quite fond of this scripture and the notion that the talents I have can be put to good use for someone other than myself. I think that was one of the most satisfying aspects of teaching. I knew that somewhere along the way I was making a difference for someone, not just in educating them, but in caring for them, loving them and helping them see and ultimately reach their potential. It truly is a most noble profession. I have always taken great pride in the fact that I was a teacher. It was who I was, not just what I was. That has changed a bit. I've had to discover other aspects of who I am, but I will always consider myself to be a teacher. Next to giving birth to my amazing son, teaching is the best thing I have ever done. I will never regret the many hours I spent working for my students. I gave them my whole heart because they were worth it.
I know that God blessed me with the "special ability to relate to teenagers." I have been grateful for it and believe I have never wasted it.
No comments:
Post a Comment