Blessed to Give

A beautiful single rose was left in a tiny glass vase on the front door steps.  Or when her strength was sapped, sweet little Ms. Eva would call to tell her neighbors to clip a prized rose from the bush that stood at the edge of her yard.  This was a touching story told by my close friend about a woman who kept giving and shining even when she didn't have much strength or when it seemed she didn't have much to give.

My friend told me that Ms. Eva was in her own way showing the love of Christ and sharing what she had been given.  This spoke beyond words and left a memory even after Ms. Eva moved out of the neighborhood and into a nursing home.  I was encouraged by this story and reminded that I too need to give what I have been entrusted with.

I recall being jealous of others when I was younger and even despairing over having no talents.  After a trip to Chicago where I was questioned about my passion, calling, and gifting and after many wrestling prayers, God led me to see clearly what those were.  I have a passion for helping children and I was led by a mentor to a ministry at church worshiping with and teaching children.  I work in the field of speech therapy which I feel was a calling to help children with special needs.  I was asked to help a friend through seminary by editing her papers--a way to use my gifts.  

Please help me Lord, not to covet the gifts you have given others.  Please help me to appreciate and use the gifts you have given me to honor you and bless others.  Forgive me for complaining when my schedule is super busy, my job is extremely challenging, or my heart is selfish with your gifts.

1 Corinthians 12: 4-6  "There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit.  there are different kinds of service, but the same Lord.  There are different kinds of working, but the same God works all of them in all men."