“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms. If anyone speaks, they should do so as one who speaks the very words of God. If anyone serves, they should do so with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen.” – 1 Peter 4:10-11
This past week our state enjoyed a large amount of rain. It was a welcomed rain, especially because it was a significant amount of rain without severe storms. The rain helped to bring new life to the dry land. It helped to fill ponds, lakes, water fields, and yards. I am so thankful for the rain as we approach what is sure to be a hot summer.
I must confess that when the rain was pouring from the sky, I was not always thinking the same thoughts of gratitude. In fact, on Monday, as the rain was pouring from the sky, I was unloading supplies for a worship service we were hosting at St. Luke’s from my truck. My suit was soaked as I grabbed as many bags as I could to run back to the building.
As I shut the door to my truck, a wonderful angel, a member of St. Luke’s, appeared as a gift from God. He held his umbrella over me, and we quickly ran back to the door of the church. As quick as he appeared, he returned to his car. It was a small, simple gesture, but it was a blessing to me. As a I shook off the water from my clothes and the bags, I found myself moving from being grumpy about the rain to being thankful for God’s gift of both rain and people who will go out of their way to serve others.
We each have been given gifts to serve others. Our gifts may be as small as an umbrella, but we will bring joy to others when we use what gifts, talents, and time we possess. The wonderful gift of a person going out of their way to extend an umbrella for me helped me to move to a spirit of gratitude and joy. We can share God’s love and bring hope to our world. We have the gifts to do so. Look for opportunities today to share your gifts. You just bring a gratitude and joy to a world that needs our love lived out in action.
– Rev. Keith King, Pastor of Worship
