I remember back in my youth group many years ago, we spent time talking about all of the gifts that we have as God’s children. My youth pastor referred back to the scripture passage from 1 Corinthians 12: 15-26, which talks about all of the different parts of the body. The main focus of that passage is to tell us that the body of Christ is made up of many parts and that all have different functions and jobs. Each and every person has different gifts that fit together with the all of the other members of the body of Christ.
Notice how I said that we each have gifts. Plural. Not just one gift. Growing up, I used to think that I just had one gift and I would spend so much time trying to figure out what that ONE gift was. Since coming to college last year, I have been figuring out that I do not just have one gift, but I actually have a few God-given gifts. I came into college thinking that I was just going to major in Social Work and that I was not going to find anything else I was passionate about. I was gladly mistaken and have learned that I have a love for Communication Studies and a passion for Prison Ministry. I have learned that I love to talk to people and work to the best of my ability to form healthy relationships with others. I also have learned that our criminal justice system is not at the place it should be and there are many injustices going on in that area. I have learned that there are many different people in detention centers, jails, prisons, halfway houses, etc who just really need to hear the Gospel, and just be heard and shown love.
Knowing that each child of God has not a single gift, but many, is such an amazing revelation. I am in awe once again of this amazing Father who created each and every one of us to be like Him, but in different ways. Some of us are able to listen well. Some are good at sharing the Gospel with diverse groups. Others may have musical gifts. The list could keep going. I am just so thankful that we are given the opportunity to use our gifts for good and to bring glory to His name.
Since I have been at college and figured out that we have many gifts or that we are able to polish up on gifts we may want, I have learned many things. I am now comfortable praying out loud in front of others, whereas a year ago that would have never happened. I am more comfortable speaking in front of a crowd because I have led a ministry for this past year. I also feel like I have a gift of being intentional with others. I have made many friends here at Eastern and our schedules get really crazy sometimes, but I feel like I am always trying to make coffee dates and see people to stay connected.
I am glad to know that my only gift is not just showing love to others, even though that is important. I know now that I can do this in many different ways--by talking to them, praying with them and just being present in conversations. Each and every person on this earth was created by our Heavenly Father and He made us all very unique. Do not grow weary if you have not been shown your gifts yet, or feel that you do not have any. God is waiting until the perfect time to reveal them to you. And remember, always use them to bring Him glory and honor.
