Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms. - 1 Peter 4:10

Devotion:

Sundays at my house growing up were chaotic. It was a mess of brushing teeth and hair, tying shoes, buttoning dresses, and trying to get out the door on time. We were rarely successful. Once we got to church, we rushed to our places. My Dad went to the sound booth, and my Mom went to teach Sunday School. After church, we went home and the rush was back on. We had to clean the house and cook food because people were always coming over. My parents hosted a small group at our house on Sunday afternoons. On any given week, 20 or more people were headed to our house for dinner. 

I remember asking my mom why we had to do so much on Sundays, why couldn’t we just sleep in and stay home? She was always very clear that on Sundays we go to church and worship the Lord. I didn’t realize this at the time, but my mom was teaching me that worshiping God is about so much more than showing up to a building and singing a few songs. My parents were modeling for my sisters and me what it looks like to worship God by stewarding the gifts he has given us. My Dad had a background in all things technology, so he ran the sound booth at the church on Sundays and for various events. My Mom loves to teach, so she led Sunday School and all the kids events with her friend. We had a house with space for people, so they invited anyone and everyone over for food and fellowship. Whatever we had, they were willing to use it to serve God and others. 

My parents didn’t serve with perfection: sometimes a sound cue got missed or coloring pages didn’t get copied correctly. My parents served faithfully and consistently. They showed us what it looks like to live with open hands and share what God has given you with your community. Whether that’s your time, your home, your talents, or your money, it can all be used to serve God and others. 

1 Peter 4:10 reminds me that everyone has something that they can contribute to the Kingdom of God and use to serve others. It is our responsibility as Christ-followers to be faithful stewards of what God has given us by being obedient to him. We can trust that God will be faithful with the results of our obedience.

This week, pray and ask God what area in your life you can use to serve him and those around you. 

Maddie Flores
Director, Kids Early Childhood - OKC

Maddie is the Crossings Kids Early Childhood Director (4 years-1st grade) at Crossings OKC. She is passionate about helping families find and follow Jesus.

Resources

• Sign up to be a volunteer
• Listen to Radical by Senior Pastor Marty Grubbs
• Listen to A Servant Mindset from Pastor Andy Rauschkolb

Read More Devotions

Explore other devotions like this one any time at crossings.church/devotions.