The Upper Room Devotion for Tuesday, April 30, 2024, was written by Darrell Boone of Indiana.
Scripture
1 Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth. 2 Worship the Lord with gladness; come into his presence with singing. 3 Know that the Lord is God. It is he that made us, and we are his; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture. 4 Enter his gates with thanksgiving, and his courts with praise. Give thanks to him, bless his name. 5 For the Lord is good; his steadfast love endures forever, and his faithfulness to all generations.
Psalm 100:1-5 NRSV
Author's Thoughts
In recent years, it has become popular for people to make a "bucket list." In other words, a list of things they want to do before they die or "kick the bucket." What if we were to make a "Chrisitan bucket list" - a list of ways we can use our gifts to provide meaningful service for the Lord's work? I once heard a Christian leader pose the question, "What makes your heart sing?"
I have a number of things on my Christian bucket list that do exactly that. For example, in memory of my late son, I serve on short-term mission teams with an international Christian disability ministry. We deliver and customize wheelchairs for people in need around the world. It brings me much joy to see people work and worship with other Christians around the world. Writing meditations for Christian resources in hopes that something I share might be helpful to others is another activity that makes my heart sing. God blesses each of us with skills, interests, and experiences that uniquely equip us to serve. When we find ways to serve that draw on those gifts, it can truly make the heart sing.
Pastor Anthony's Thoughts
Friends,
Darrell's reflection reminds us that God has given each of us unique gifts to edify and encourage others to connect with our loving God. You may not be gifted to sing like an angel, but you are gifted to extend hospitality. You may not be gifted to preach or exhort, but you are gifted to teach with clarity. How ever God has gifted you, choose to use your gifts to be a blessing to others.
Author's Prayer
Dear Lord, thank you for the gifts and talents your give to each person. Help us find ways to serve you joyfully and effectively. Amen.