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When I think of a gift, I think of birthdays, or Christmas, or Mother's Day or Father's Day.
I am privileged to see the prayer which accompanies today's Daily Texts, and you will get to pray that prayer with me in a little while. It is beautifully crafted and says succinctly what I'm going to say now, perhaps not terribly succinctly.
What is the gift that is in you? What are the gifts that are in you? It is very possible, of course, that each person has more than one gift -- maybe far more than one gift.
Are we using those gifts to the glory of God and to serve God's kingdom?
I know that there are many charitable organizations which need gifts of many kinds, including financial gifts, prayer support, and volunteerism of many kinds. I will admit that right now, I have a rather large pile of unopened mail which has a lot of requests from charitable organizations. Am I able to give to each organization? I don't think so; in fact, I know I'm not able to give to every organization -- so it will be "pick and choose" and I will pray about these decisions as well.
Some people are very good listeners, and the world certainly needs plenty of listeners. Some people are very good at organization and being in charge.
Re-read the second scripture passage for today: do NOT neglect the gift that is in you. We need to know what the gift is, and how best to use it. "Hide it under a bushel, NO! I'm gonna let it shine?" That little song quote is from "This Little Light of Mine."
Please pray today's prayer along with me -- and really mean it as it you pray:
Holy Spirit, I confess I let the troubles of my world crowd out your call to attend to your work. Stir up the fire and fan the flames of love and service within me. Ignite, strengthen, and restore my obedience to use the gift you have given me for your glory. Amen.
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