|
Recently, as we were donning our coats, Jessica pulled a rock from her pocket. She held it in between her thumb and index finger, rolled it around, smiled, and showed it to me. It had been given to her by one of her students a few years ago. This little first grader found this tiny rock on the playground and, in joy, shared it with her teacher. Years later this seemingly insignificant gift still brings about a full-body smile. As Jessica remembers that day, you can almost see her transported in time, standing on the playground on a chilly winter day with her students.
In 1 Peter 4:10-11 we read, “As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace: whoever speaks, as one who speaks oracles of God; whoever serves, as one who serves by the strength that God supplies — in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ.” We may not think of the gift of a little rock as serving others or bringing glory to God, but it did, and still does.
God gives each and every one of us unique gifts and abilities. What gifts do you have? Is it the gift of listening? Is it the gift of fixing a car or understanding financial markets? Maybe something else. No matter what it is, know with certainty that God has given you the gifts and abilities to serve others. I don’t know if that little first grader today remembers giving Jessica that rock, but it displayed a joy in giving something precious.
As you reflect on that this Advent season, look to the manger and then to the cross. You and I have been given something precious — forgiveness and new life in Christ. He served us by giving His life so that we could be reconciled to Him, and He takes joy in each one of His children. Trusting in His promises, we step out in faith. Walking in joy as we serve others in His name.
| 
