Wednesday, August 26, 2009

Gifts and Responsibilities

It was one of those moments I had to push away feelings of jealousy for an indisputable gift. An ordinary woman came out and gave a stellar performance. She looked great, she sounded fantastic and everyone in the room, even David Hasselhoff, recognized a divine touch on her. She herself almost seemed surprised.

I kept thinking, "What must that feel like?"

At the risk of completely exposing my egocentricity, I'll tell you I've craved a moment like Barbara Padilla experienced my whole life. I've wanted to know the thrill of every person in the room recognizing God's touch on me. I've yearned to be a vessel through which others glimpse the unmistakable beauty of God, to be used in such a way there is no other explanation.

Yet I too easily forget for every shining moment comes hours and hours of preparation behind the magnificent scene, requiring time away from loved ones and other worthwhile activities. With a gift like that comes an obligation to share it, whether one feels like it or not. This woman will no doubt have to extend herself beyond what is comfortable or convenient. The greater the gift, the greater the responsibility, the greater the burden, the more God asks.

. . .From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and from the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked.

Luke 12:48

Do I want to live with that burden? Can I give that much?

Only God knows.

So instead of pining away for an amazing gift, I entrust myself to an incredible God. I use what He's given me to the best of my ability and push myself to be faithful in every little thing He brings my way.

Then, the most thrilling moment of all will surely be mine, the day I hear, "Well done, good and faithful servant."

4 comments:

Unknown said...

Wow! Incredible Tami... thank you. Your timing could not have been more perfect. I feel inspired, convicted, and compelled to do something.

And just a side note... I know you have been that person for a number of people... and I'm thinking especially of a certain group of girls who spent hours on your back porch. You do have a touch of the divine, and you inspired us. Thank you.

Linda said...

The ultimate stage-before the throne.

We all have the same longing. We just need to remember what we really long for is the smile of heaven.

Susan said...

Unbelievabe...and truly amazing!

What a testimony, what talent.

Yes, she has truly used her gift to glorify our Father.

Thanks for sharing this Tami♥

Brenda said...

You know the Bible said that God uses the weak and untalented to confound the world! You have tons of talent Tami and you allow God to use it so well. He promises to use our weaknesses too though.