Week 2: Focus Our Gifts
Five minutes with God each day
Monday: In Mark 1:35-38, Jesus goes out to a “deserted place” in the morning to pray. Through his prayer to God, he learns that God wants to change his plans so that he can “proclaim the message” in other towns, “for that is what I came out to do.” What does God want you to do this day? How might God change your plans?
Tuesday: When some people are asked about their spiritual gifts, they think they don’t have any, yet the Bible is clear: the Spirit brings out spiritual gifts “in everyone” (1 Cor. 12:6). What gifts has God given you? (Note: gifts aren’t limited to so-called “religious” ones – preaching, teaching, etc. God doesn’t just work in church! J )
Wednesday: Romans 15:2 says, “Each of us must please our neighbor for the good purpose of building up the neighbor.” How might God want you to use your gifts for caring for your neighbors today? Who might these neighbors be for you?
Thursday: Fredrick Buechner once said that your “calling” is where your deepest longing and the world’s deepest need meet. What issue or need in the world are you most passionate about? How might God want you to meet that need in your neighbor today?
Friday: Martin Luther was famous for expanding the idea of “vocation.” In his day, the only “vocations” people talked about were religious ones (nuns, monks, priests, etc.); Luther expanded the idea to include most of life’s roles, including family (mom, dad, child, brother, sister) and work. In which of your many vocations might God be calling you to serve today?
Saturday: This day, ask God to help you be unbusy. Offer this day, or part of this day (even five minutes!), as Sabbath to God. Focus on simple blessings – family, friendships, food, a good book, or whatever gives you rest and joy. Give thanks to God for the many gifts God has placed in your life.
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