Making a DifferenceDo you find it interesting, as I do, that God has made us different in so many ways? Looking around the church I see that some of us are short, others tall; some us wear glasses, others don’t, some of us like sports, some of us like to fish and hunt, others like computers. Some of us like and are good at music while others aren’t. God has given us different interests, talents, desires, and gifts. God also gives us different careers. He made us carpenters, business people, doctors, plumbers, teachers, etc. We don’t look or sound alike, but as Christians we do have much in common. As God’s children, we believe that He has created us and loves us so much that He sent His Son to die for each of us. We know that He calls and knows us by name, and we are united in our faith.
As God’s people, we also have a common task as Ephesians 4:12 states, “that the body of Christ may be built up.” God in His infinite wisdom allows us to choose how to serve Him best. As we contemplate how best we can serve the Lord, it is good to remember that God will empower us so we can faithfully use our God-given talents for His kingdom. God didn’t make us and give us so much without giving us, as well, the ability to make a difference in our church, community, and the world. God will always equip us for the tasks He gives us to do. Think of the account of the tongue-tied Moses whom God equipped to be the leader of a vast nation. Study the life of David, an obscure shepherd boy, whom God prepared to be king. Marvel at God’s patience with Gideon who asked for test after test before he was confident enough to undertake the task God entrusted him. We might find new situations and challenges to be a bit risky or uncomfortable, but just as God was with Moses, David, and Gideon, He will be with us all the way. With His help, we will find ways our time and talents can make a difference.
Ephesians 4:16 reads, “From Him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work.” It is important and essential that we do our parts to support the body of Christ. We could easily compare this to a basketball team, which requires the contribution of each player. The guards need to bring the ball down the court, run the offense, make the correct passes and contribute in scoring. The forwards need to rebound and score, along with the center. All of the positions have to contribute on defense. Each team members plays a unique role and is valuable to the team. If one of them fails to contribute, the whole team suffers. We each have a part to contribute on God’s team. We can be effective in reaching the unchurched and building up the churched when we all contribute. God gives us talents and gifts so we can use them to His glory in His church. When we let God work through us, we can make a difference.
