By the Waters of Babylon – Ps 137:1
Each of us has fingerprints that differ from all the other billions on the earth. Our talents are unique in such a way that if we could measure and code them, we would find them as different as our fingerprints.
This is not as crazy as it sounds! Nature is rich with uniqueness. No two snowflakes are identical in form and outline.
This possession of unique talents is a gift from God. Everyone is given a variety of talents. They mark us as individuals. Too many of us think that having talent means having or doing something greater or better than others. I don’t think that is what God intended. Many of us can sing after a fashion, but none of us will ever get to be a lyric tenor. Many of us can cook, but there are very few world-famous chefs. Many of us can write, but not many of us will ever become famous poets. Gifts are meant to be used, not compared.
God wants us to use whatever talents we possess in his service. It does not have to be the “best” as long as it is our talent freely given in his service. You can use your special talent of persuasion to get donations to feed the needy, or use your talent to teach, educating others. If you can write, use that talent to communicate with others. If you can sing, form or join a choir. If you have a compassionate ear, let those to whom no one listens speak to you.
Use your talents in God’s service, whether in your church or in the broader setting of the local or national community. You were blessed with talents by God; return the blessing in full measure by sharing yourself and your talents with God and your neighbors in gracious thanksgiving.
