Because of an unreliable internet connection and some technical issues that are far above my ability to understand, we had to record the worship service in the Family Life and Worship Building on Saturday afternoon. But when it was time to start the worship service, I noticed too much action around the audio/visual control booth. It was clear there was a lot of confusion.
Since I love to punch buttons and turn knobs, I graciously, humbly volunteered to go into the control booth and fix the issues that had everyone so perplexed. There was dead silence.
Then, Emily started screaming, “No,” as she dialed 911. Adam started cussing in Yiddish. Pastor Brian pulled out a machete. Pastor Kit started doing weird kung fu moves. Craig strung up yellow caution tape. Sam started throwing chairs. Dr. Bradley played the organ as loud as possible to drown out Adam. Meg threatened to perform an exorcism. Laura sprayed pepper spray. And while all this was going on, Trent, Jackie, and Mike watched in amusement.
Even though my feelings were hurt by everyone’s violent reaction to my offer to help, I was determined to twist knobs and punch buttons. Then Chris yelled out “1 Corinthians 12.” That’s when I got it.
While everyone else was being mean, Chris was using scripture to gently point out that, even though I have gifts, fixing technical issues is not one of them. It’s the same for you.
You have a gift. You may or may not recognize what it is but it’s there. God is the one who made you the way you are. God gave you the gift that makes you unique. God expects you to use your gift to make this world a better place.
This is what Chris was referencing. It’s from Paul’s first letter to the Christians in Corinth. He said: “There are different spiritual gifts but the same Spirit; and there are different ministries and the same Lord; and there are different activities but the same God who produces all of them in everyone.” (1 Corinthians 12:4-6)
Now that I’ve had some time to think about it, I have to agree with Chris. Even though I like twisting knobs and punching buttons, that’s not really my gift. I think we can all agree my gift in preaching the greatest sermons in the history of sermons. I’m good with that.
So find your gift and let God use you to help this world be a place of joy, peace, and prosperity. We all have a part to play. That’s how God designed us.
Prayer: Dear Gracious Heavenly God, today I offer myself without reservation, hesitation, or condition. Use me for your purpose. I pray the gifts you have given me lighten someone’s heavy load. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.
Use your gift. That’s why you are here.
Also, just for the record, I would like to point out all the members of the staff with seminary degrees or are currently in seminary were very unkind. Chris, a volunteer with no seminary degree, is the one who used scripture to resolve the conflict. I wonder what that says about our staff?
Today in the staff meeting, I am going to remind everyone that I am like a delicate flower – beautiful but fragile. I should be treated that way.
I pray your day is filled with joy and laughter.
Tom Robbins
Daily Devotionals by Dr. Tom Robbins 