The Journey

Steve & Shirley

“So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers…” Ephesians 4:11

This morning I put together one of those prefab cabinets, you know the ones that come with all the stuff already with it. And all you have to do is just follow the instructions and put it together. Well, no fault to the store, no fault to the manufacturer, no-fault to anything else but operator error.

When I got through, the cabinet doors didn’t quite come together as designed, pieces of white facing on the shelves were scraped off, one corner did not hold very securely, and the whole thing was a little loppie-jawed.

Those of you who know me, know that this is a common occurrence with me. You recall, I am sure, I built a doghouse for my dog but he was too ashamed to go in it. I built a toy chest for my son and it ended up becoming a wood box. I actually destroyed many of Shirley’s father’s lawn equipment tools. So much so, that he instructed me “Steve, don’t ever touch my stuff again.”

I am so happy – so very happy that God gave different gifts to different people. Imagine if I had to try to make a living building things, or taking care of lawns and their equipment? I’m so glad that there are people who can build stuff. If I would work for Brent or Rickie my job would be one of two things: either being the runner who retrieves coffee and lunch, or the one who researches and answers the theological tomes of the 2 x 4.

I am happy every time I look in the eyes of a waitress at a restaurant and know that there is a light on inside.  I know that I will get my same glass back after she goes to refill it. I am happy every time I talk with the mechanic and he’s able to tell me the real problem going on with my car. I’m happy every time I visit the doctor and I know that God has given this person the intellect, ability, and curiosity to care for the health of others. There are a lot of things in this world I can’t do. But I am so thankful that God has gifted people to do what the world needs done.

Next time you see a construction site, think to yourself: “I know Steve Martin is not out there working – and thank God for that.” But perhaps when you read a devotion you may say I’m glad he is able to do that – because many times that brings me comfort and gives me encouragement for a new day. It at least gives me a laugh.

Dear Lord, thank you for the many gifts that you have given your people that the needs of this world might be met and your people may be made whole, in and through Jesus. Amen.

Grace and Peace

Steve

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