Service...

Talents...

I know that many people have various talents. Some can sing, play instruments, leadership, cook, give monetarily more than others, preach, missions, hospitality, and more. Our church has a food pantry. I have served in this since its inception a few years back. There were times I wasn't as involved as I am now, but I have been privileged to work alongside others and watch this ministry grow. I am not in a leadership capacity. I go to the food pantry and fill boxes, occasionally I am blessed to carry out a box, and sometimes pray with or ask the person if they need prayers. Other than that, I just fill boxes. That is my talent in this area. Doesn't sound like much, but it is a service to God and I enjoy it. Yesterday was food pantry day. I was tired, wet, and cold, and could think of a million excuses not to go. They will have enough without me. I just fill boxes, they won't need me. There will be others who can take my place. However, I also knew that my grandson was looking forward to his guitar lesson from our music leader. He was also excited about 4th Wednesday's Fun, Food, and Game Night. If I didn't go, I would be letting him down. My husband graciously asked if he could take him. There was my way out. But God...He kept telling me to go. So I went.

I noticed when I pulled into the parking area, there were no cars. I am always early. I would rather be 15 minutes early than 1 minute late. As always, once I get there, I am busy from the start. However, before my grandson and I were able to put the car in park, three more vehicles were pulling up. These were people who were coming early, over an hour early, to wait for us to open, receive food, and visit the Clothing Closet if needed. Despite the heavy downpour, these people were already parking and waiting, depending on what we provided. Although it may seem small and insignificant, this is a part of my service. I needed to serve Him and receive the blessings that come with service. Every single time I serve, I am blessed. I feel it. I feel His goodness and mercy pouring down like the rain outside last night. I am humbled by the blessings and I value this talent God gave me. To some, it may only seem like filling a box, but to me, that is filling a heart with the love of our creator and sustainer. He provides the food and clothing, we provide His hands.

1 Peter 4:9-11 says, "Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. 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 forever and ever. Amen." You see, hospitality is one of the talents God gave me. The ability to show kindness, generosity, providing for, and caring for others. I can do that. Praise God, I can serve. Last night, He gave me strength. He provided blessings through service and I am so grateful.