Job 4:1-7:21
1 Corinthians 14:18-40
Psalm 37:30-40
Proverbs 21:27
We have two sons, 2 years apart; often, when they get home, one or the other will announce to us that our favorite son (or child) has arrived. The other one, hearing the first brother's words, will then sometimes demand to know which of them was their favorite. Sometimes they argue, leading to conflict and division. Sometimes the issue isn't even that one believes they are superior to the others, but rather that one winds up feeling less important, less loved than the others.
They miss the point, seeking primacy where they are all wonderful children, each with their own unique personas. The big sister is creative and musical; she gives joy with her compositions. The middle child is generously diligent and hard working, ever ready to lend a hand. The youngest one is so full of laughter he is incapable of holding a frown even when he is angry. A choice is impossible; they are all such wonderful gifts, and they each have such wonderful gifts. So we gently try to teach them that, rather than aspiring to primacy over their siblings, they should aspire to use their gifts the best they can.
In the NT reading, Paul continues to address a similar problem in the Corinthian church. The church is embroiled in internal strife, with people insisting that their gifts are more valuable than others'. He makes clear that the different gifts of the Spirit are valuable in different ways, and all are to be embraced and shared.
We each have our own gifts, gifts we can put in God's service, to help build His kingdom. There are none more valuable than the others; perhaps, as is the case with our children, the more pertinent question is whether or not we use them the best we can for Him.
Father, thank You for how You have created and blessed us uniquely. Allow us to recognize, appreciate and use the gifts and the abilities You've given us for Your greater glory.
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