So often, even in the church, it is easy for us to begin to value the wrong things: productivity over spirituality; schedule over transformation; as we fall into routine it is easy to do, and we have all been guilty of it. In the midst of a world that is so chaotic and busy, routines are a good way to keep on task, to reach goals, and to be productive. However we run into issues when the routine becomes more important then the work. Getting it done is one thing, and it is not everything. To exist in a world that is constantly pushing us to get more done, to work more hours, to make more and spend more and be more. Is there room for another way?
The short answer, is yes. in our scripture for this Sunday’s worship Paul reminds us that it does not matter how “successful” we are as a church if love does not flow through everything that we do. This is such good news! As we have spent the last three weeks talking about what our spiritual gifts are it is in this time that we will be able to bring them fully to the table and ask ourselves, what do we do with these God-given gifts. The answer is going to depend on what your gifts are, are you a vocal leader? Do you enjoy hands on service or working in the background or on greater systems? Is there something you are passionate about sharing with your community of faith? All of these things allow us to g deeper into the work of the church. Not just being successful in routine and numbers, but to be passionate in service and justice. This service will give us the opportunity to see what is available for our spiritual gifts in this community, and how we can do the work of transformation right here, right now.
This is hope in the midst of a difficult world, this is our reminder when we find ourselves falling into that routine. Our prayer is that this is an ongoing, perhaps yearly practice that we take up to discover what gifts we bring to the table and the best ways to activate them to serve others, through love.
Melissa Hurley is Pastor at Middletown Community United Methodist Church. Please join us in Middletown at 11 a.m. as we combine our spiritual gifts and the work of the church. All Are Welcome.
