Scripture: 1 Corinthians 12:28
In the church, God has appointed first apostles, second prophets, third teachers, then miracles, then gifts of healing, the ability to help others, leadership skills, different kinds of tongues.
Thought for the Day: Paul appears to have an order — first, second, third… It might be interpreted as levels of importance, but since humility and the first being last, I doubt Paul was attempting to create a hierarchy. What leaps from the page for me, at least today, is the idea of God appointing people to specific tasks. As people wander into Cypress Creek Christian Church, whether that be Sundays or Tuesdays or whenever, I so often encounter people who are dealing with difficulties, feeling devalued or are overwhelmed by life. My prayer is that we see them, not specifically by their struggles, but as God sees them. We never want to dismiss or disregard people’s brokenness, for every person is a beloved child of God. At the same time, there is something powerful in discovering that we all have gifts, and through those gifts, there is purpose and meaning for our lives. I have seen people, at every stage of life, discover for themselves a new sense of purpose through which they could bring blessings to others. Let us be God’s agents who walk alongside those who are hurting or feeling lost, while always seeing them as more than their brokenness. I believe God sees all of me, even the parts that do not resemble God’s hope for me, but in seeing me and loving me, I move to that place where I can better embrace my unique giftedness and divine direction.
Prayer: Though I am wounded and broken, you have never defined me by what afflicts me, Merciful Creator. You look upon me with compassion, while also calling me to participate in your great work. Thank you for seeing me for who I am and who I can be. Amen.
SATURDAY
