Gifted and Called

2/12/2021

1 Peter 4:10-11 "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. To him belong glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen"

I just finished (literally about 5 minutes ago) reading my son's third novel. It is a 400 page dark urban fantasy called Emerald of Madoc City. That may seem slightly out of the realm of what I write here, but his writing always has very powerfully faith connected themes. This story is no different. He has the ability to create interesting settings, deeply flawed, altruistic, and complicated characters, and stories that are at once easily readable and complexly themed. I am so pleased that my son is using the gifts that God has given him to put such wonderfully poignant and entertaining stories into the world. He has taken the "road less traveled", as Frost would say, because he truly feels it is what God has called him to do. Is this an easy life? Not at all. Is it a rewarding one? Absolutely. Does my son think he is gifted? Well, like most deeply creative people, he would say no. He just does not know any other way to be. He lives and breathes creativity, it is part of his DNA. 

I have heard many people speak about still seeking their true gifts even into adulthood, although most have been willingly blessing others with their gifts for years. Some gifts are so tangible because they can be experienced, like the gifts of acting, writing, and drawing that my son has. Some gifts, although not tangible, are experienced though a feeling or emotion. Sometimes a person has a gift to inspire others. My nephew has this gift, and it has been affirmed to him just this week. My sister has the gift of selfless care for others. She has always been a person who serves others without asking for any help, therefore bringing blessings into the lives of those around her. I come from a family full of people with the gift of charity; there are too many of these individuals to mention by name, but I can say I have been on the receiving end of their love and generosity many times. I have a dear friend with the true gift of hospitality, and I always say going to her house is like a warm hug. I also know people who have the gift of encouragement and the gift of being prayer warriors. All these gifts, if we are willing to let God truly use them in our lives, will enrich and bless the lives of those around us. The only thing that can stand in the way of anyone using a God given gift is fear, but if we trust God and submit to His will, He will show us the way.