Do You Do Your Part?
When was the last time you sat outside a shop or at a public park and did some people watching? (If you are a man – there is a good chance you may have tired of the shopping exploits recently and sat on a bench to watch life go by.) Have you noticed how different people look? It doesn’t seem like there are that many variables for God to work with, yet every single person is different from all the others. The array of different body shapes, muscle structures and tones, hair colors, textures and styles (or lack thereof), facial complexions, shapes and expressions seem almost limitless. It can be a fascinating study.
Why did God make everyone different? Why not just develop and stamp out a few models? Beyond pointing to God’s infinite creativity, our diversity reflects different facets of God Himself. We are created in His image, and each one of us adds clarity to the reflection of the glory and awesomeness of God. We all have distinct roles to play in reflecting the image of God. Not only so, we also have distinct roles to play in strengthening each other to better reflect Him.
As we learn to lovingly speak God’s truth to each other, and learn to receive it from each other, we will grow up together in Christ. He holds our lives together in relationship with each other – so that we can each perform our specific God-designed tasks to strengthen one another. We are built up together in love, as each one of us does our pre-ordained work. (Ephesians 4:16)
What is your work? What has God designed you to do that strengthens others? How do your talents, abilities and gifts mix together in your life in order to create a unique offering and service to others? Have you taken time to really consider this – so that you can articulate your main work, and structure and plan accordingly? Sometimes we need feedback from others to help us discover who we are – what we do well and effectively – and sometimes to even help us see our passions. When we are doing the kinds of things we were particularly created to do, we will usually feel energized, growing and alive. Thus, understanding ourselves and God’s work in our lives is a worthwhile pursuit. It’s not just for your joy that you learn to do “your work,” it is a great benefit to others. You will do for them what no one else will because God planned it for you.
Start today to take note of those things that bring you a sense of joy and fulfillment to do. Note the things that make you stronger in the doing, and the things that seem to have very positive impact on others. These are often the best clues to understand the kinds of work for which God has designed you – in doing these things you are doing “your part.” (Ephesians 2:10)
Working with you,
Pastor Tom
tgriffith@rolcboston.org
