When it comes to talents/gifts the one thing that inspires me the most to use them is the Parable of the Talents (Mt. 25:14). I believe wholeheartedly that everyone has something to contribute to God's Kingdom. Everyone has a part in the "Great Commission". Whether it be by giving financially to support a ministry, by investing time and energy in order to get things done or by freely and joyfully using his/hers creative talents to bless the church in any given way. No one has an excuse for not getting involved in one way or another. We are all members of one body. A foot, an arm, an eyelash, or a fingernail, we are all important and have a job to do (Rom. 12:4-8). When we acknowledge Jesus as Lord the Bible says that we are "born again" into the family of God. This new birth is like a Potter taking a clump of clay (us) and molding it so that it can be a useful vessel. We are all useful!

The Bible also tells us the God blesses a cheerful giver. When we "give" of ourselves with a cheerful heart that is when God's blessing come pouring over our lives. I do not believe that we should EVER put a price on or expect any earthly reward for our service to God. With that said. I encourage all who work with children and youth to continue doing so faithfully, joyfully and to the BEST of their abilities. Our passion/zeal for the ministry may not always be valued, appreciated or supported, but in the end what matters is that we were obedient and that we, like the first two servants, wisely invested the talents that our Master entrusted to us. For me, all I care is to hear him say, "Well done, good and faithful servant; you have been faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord." (Mt. 25:23)

 

Sorry for the sermon. I am just soooo blessed to be a giving part of this great community of believers and faithful servants!