Using Our Gifts (9/28/2023)

Last night, our 6th grade class spent some time discussing how each of us is unique and each of us are gifted by the LORD. We discussed discerning those gifts and putting those gifts to use for others and for the glory of the LORD. Then last night as I walked about the home turning off lights, I spied the photo of my sister Betty and me. And my eyes went to what we were wearing – dresses sewn by my mother. My mother, in her day, had discerned that one of her gifts was sewing and she was a seamstress extraordinaire.

All my outerwear was created by my mother. She had a real talent for sewing clothing that no one would have guessed were “homemade.” She spent hours at her machine, creating clothes for we six children. She sewed my prom dress and matching full-length coat which is folded up in my cedar chest. And as her expertise grew as well as her reputation, she was asked to sew for others. She made all the uniforms for the school cheerleading squads. She sewed for the Sisters who taught us in school.

My mother had discerned that in using her talent, her gift, she could make a difference in the lives of others. And she did it with love. As I looked at the photo of my sister and I and recalled how diligently my mother used her gift and how widely she shared her talent, I had to ask myself if I was as determined as her in using my gifts for others.

As I told the youth in class last night, we are like a huge mosaic. Each of us brings specific gifts. Each of us is called to add to the whole in the name of the LORD for the benefit of others and the glory of God. Last evening, I spent some time reflecting on the many gifts the LORD has given to me and my use of them. I promised the LORD to do a better job of using that which I have been given.

As we continue our journeys in faith, hope and love, let us continue to discern not only our gifts but their use. Let us commit to doing what we can whenever and wherever we can, recognizing that the kingdom demands this of us for all the right reasons.

Until tomorrow, let us all love well.