Giving Our Best Effort

Read: Matthew 25: 14-30

 When I was nineteen years old, I spent a summer touring with a national Christian singing group. On one of the numbers, it was my job to go out in the audience and find kids to participate in a children's song. When I came upon a child being cradled by his father I asked if it would be alright to take the boy up to participate. The father then gently pointed out that his son was mentally and physically disabled. I was a little taken aback but then regaining my composure I assured the gentleman it would be all right. After taking the child up the front and cradling him on my lap I noticed how severe his disabilities were. It appeared that he probably wasn't going to be aware of what was going on around him let alone be able to participate. As the music started I was surprised to see him attempt to do what the other children were doing. Even though his movements were not grand, it was obvious that he was doing the best he could with whatever ability God had given him.

 As the song came to a close I couldn't help but accept the gentle rebuke in my spirit. How often have I been guilty of "going through the motions" instead of giving my best effort to God. So many times we take what God has given us for granted and instead of thanking him with the best of our abilities,we merely do enough to "get by." While, as Christians, we realize no matter what we do we can't earn our way to heaven, it is because we love Him that we want Him to be happy with our efforts. It is because of our love for God that we must love others by caring for their needs, sharing our faith, and mentoring other Christians.

Dear Lord- Thank you for another day to serve you. Help me to use my health and talents wisely so that I may best serve you and others. In Jesus name, Amen.