1 Peter 4:10-11 (CEB)

10 And serve each other according to the gift each person has received, as good managers of God’s diverse gifts. 11 Whoever speaks should do so as those who speak God’s word. Whoever serves should do so from the strength that God furnishes. Do this so that in everything God may be honored through Jesus Christ. To him be honor and power forever and always. Amen.


Reflection

Today is the last day of the Greater New Jersey Annual Conference of 2023. I got to attend my first in-person clergy session, share meals with my family (because we’re all pastors) and friends, and enjoy the sunny weather of the Jersey Shore. We’ve also had to talk through tough topics. At times, tensions were high and emotions were strong. These three days are a lot on our clergy and laity.

What is evident, though, particularly when you put this many people who love God and the church together in a shared space, is a mosaic of gifts that remind you that God is at work. The musicians with their high energy talent and leadership make me wish I could play an instrument (I’ve tried, but never with much success). The workshop leaders who can take simple things like sea glass and turn it into a powerful prayer workshop that leaves you refreshed makes me wish I could have envisioned that myself. Just the organization and planning that goes into planning an event of this scale makes me wish that I could coordinate that well.

The gifts of others at work reminds me that God does not need me to be good at everything, but to serve, celebrate, highlight and cheer on the gifts of my colleagues that motivates them to keep doing the amazing work they are doing! When we use our gifts and uplift others gifts in this way God is truly honored.

by Rachel Callender


For Pondering & Prayer

Where have you seen individual gifts come together to make something big and powerful? How has that inspired and motivated you in your sharing of your gifts?

Prayer: Holy Lord, we give thanks for the ways you work beauty and grace through the calling you have in our lives. May it be used for your glory! Amen.