March 4, 2017

Sometimes we underestimate our own power and ability. This can be especially true when it comes to expressing our faith. We may not feel comfortable praying aloud in a group, feel qualified to teach, or question whether God is really calling us to start that conversation or make that visit. We may not feel like we know what to do or how to do it when it comes to sharing our faith, either through our words, our service, or our example.  

 
Jesus says in John 14:12 “Very truly I tell you, whoever believes in me will do the works that I have been doing, and they will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father.”  Can Jesus really be telling his disciples (or us) that we would do greater things than him? This seems impossible. Until we really start to think about it. God is doing his work to transform lives and he uses us to be a part of this transforming work. God has sent his Spirit to be with us, so we are not doing these things just on our own abilities, intellectual capabilities, or will – but God is with us.  
 
If we want to do the “greater things” then first we must trust as the spirit leads and guides us. If he is calling us to call up a friend, mentor a young person, pray at a moment of crisis, or go to a place of need, then we should listen and obey. And we can know that God is with us and using us. It’s not just our words that we are called to share, but God’s words through us. As each of us takes a step of faith to go where God leads us and needs us, we are able to make a real difference of sharing God’s love in the world around us. Especially together, we can do greater things, and we all have a role. That’s what it means when we become the “hands and feet of Christ.”  We are the body of Christ. Don’t let your insecurities or your weaknesses become stronger than the power of Christ that is in you. As we trust further in his power in us, we can do these greater things by doing our part to share his love with others.
 
Amy Givens, Director of Youth Ministry