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Good Shepherd Lutheran Church Today's Frontline Devotion January 26, 2006 Life Gifts |
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Frontline Devotion for Thursday, January 26, 2006 by Pastor Dave Sonnenberg
Last night, I was facilitating a small group at our church on the issue of our natural gifts from God or “Life Gifts”.
The first slide I showed was a cartoon picture of an orchestra. Specifically the picture focused in on the front row with 3 or 4 musicians, each whom was sitting down and holding their own unique instrument. They seemed to be playing with joy. There was a conductor holding out his baton looking directly at a person who is holding a musical case while standing next to an empty chair. The conductor is motioning (almost urging) the person to sit down and join in the orchestra.
You and I have been given some unique gifts and talents by God almighty and he is urging us to be a part of his “orchestra” in this world. God wants you to be you. He doesn’t want you to be wishing you were somebody else. Authenticity is key in these postmodern days. There are too many instances in life where we are pulled away from doing what we do best either by obligation, fear, or lack of willingness to change. Some may be afraid that they have nothing to offer. The image of God’s people as an orchestra reminds us all that we are each called upon to play our part- honoring the uniqueness that lies within for the sake of others. Our goal is to learn more about ourselves and the gifts we have to offer. (and ask the help of our brothers and sisters in the faith who can help provide clarity.)
I am still exploring this whole concept but I fully believe that many people on the Frontlines of this world are still trying to figure out “what instrument (gifts)” they are meant to play. Rest assured, we are created in the image of God to do his good works. As we focus on learning to serve where we are best suited, we will serve with joy, enthusiasm. We will play our part in a way that blesses others, brings us fulfillment and new energy, and contributes to the beautiful music, which announces God’s arrival in everyday living.
Lord God, you created each one of us to play our part in the world. Help us to understand exactly who we are and who you are calling us to be. Help us sit down and join in your beautiful orchestra, the community of faith. Teach us, mold us, direct us, and encourage us this day and in all the days to come. Amen.
To learn more about ways that Good Shepherd is helping to facilitate Christian self-understanding, check out the new program we are introducing in 2006 - Life Keys. You can read Pastor Dave’s February Newsletter Article on the www.goodshepherdonline.org web site or you can check out the www.Lifekeys.com web site.
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All are welcome to join and share in our Devotional Ministry on the "Frontlines" of the world. Frontline Devotions are sent via email daily. Sign up by clicking on the box to the left. Pastor Dave welcomes feedback. Contact him at pastordave@goodshepherdonline.org. |
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