Thursday, February 19th

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February 19: Serving the Lord Together
 
The two of them, sent on their way by the Holy Spirit, went down to Seleucia and sailed from there to Cyprus. When they arrived at Salamis, they proclaimed the word of God in the Jewish synagogues. 
—Acts 13:4-5

Have you ever looked at the problems facing our world—systemic poverty, child abuse, environmental concerns, or lack of education, to name a few—and thought, What can I do? I’m only one person. In the world’s economy, that’s true: each of us is only one person. But not so in Christ.

Because of Christ, we are no longer just one person. We are one body made up of ordinary individuals who have been called by God to do extraordinary things together. Vesta Kelly gives this word picture to illustrate: “Snowflakes are one of nature’s most fragile things, but just look at what they can do when they stick together.”

Think about it: one snowflake is so small it dissolves on your tongue. But when a group of snowflakes works together, they have the power to cover an entire landscape with beauty, cancel school, or cover the tallest mountain.

It’s interesting to note that the early church’s first missionaries, Paul and Barnabas, were so different in terms of their gifts and personalities. Paul was a bold leader of the church, outspoken and fearless in his preaching, even to those who vehemently opposed him. He was quick on his feet, vocal about his beliefs, and articulate in communicating truths about Christ. 

Barnabas, on the other hand, was more of a behind-the-scenes guy. He didn’t seek attention or fame, and his primary reputation was as an encourager. His given name was Joseph, but he was so faithful in his support of the other believers that he earned the nickname Barnabas, which means “Son of Encouragement.”

God knew that these two sets of gifts would complement each other well when the two men were traveling and sharing the good news. Paul couldn’t be effective in sharing the gospel without the support and encouragement of Barnabas, and Barnabas wouldn’t have been able to play to his strengths if he’d tried to be the one out front.

And it wasn’t just Paul and Barnabas who were being used by God: the rest of the church was also being used by God as they sent these two missionaries into the world. As senders, their role wasn’t as glamorous or dramatic, but they were no less important. Paul and Barnabas needed their prayers, financial support, and counsel.

We were meant to serve together. Our gifts are different, but our goal is the same: to serve Christ and advance his Kingdom.

What gifts has God given you? Are you more of a leader or an encourager? This week, take some time to pray about how God might be calling you to use your unique gifts to serve alongside your fellow believers.

—Stephanie Rische