The Gift

“For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others and to give his life as a ransom for many.”  Matthew 20:28 (NLT)

Jesus is our greatest example of serving. He did not come demanding comfort, recognition, or applause. He came giving. He came loving. He came laying down His life so others could be restored. Jesus Himself was the Father’s gift to the world.

When Jesus spoke with the woman at the well, He said, “If you knew the gift of God…” (John 4:10). Jesus was revealing that He was the gift—God’s answer to thirsty hearts, empty souls, and searching lives. He came to bring living water that never runs dry.

The same God who gave Jesus has also placed gifts inside of you.

Do you know you are a gift, you have a gift, and you can give your gift away?

Every person on the team matters. Every smile, every greeting, every prayer, every camera angle, every child ministered to, every seat prepared, every parking space directed, every note played, every behind-the-scenes task completed in faithfulness—these are gifts being given to others.

“As every man hath received the gift, even so minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.” 1 Peter 4:10 NKJV

God did not accidentally place gifts inside you. He designed you with purpose and entrusted you with something valuable that someone else needs. When you serve, grace flows through your life to bless others.

If gifts remain unused, then some part of God’s work may be left undone. But when each person shows up and gives what God has placed in them, the church becomes stronger, healthier, and more effective.

As you serve, remain tuned in to The Holy Spirit. He knows the guest who needs encouragement, the family who needs kindness, the team member who needs support, and the moment that needs wisdom. He will guide you beyond tasks into ministry.

Confession:
I am a gift, I have a gift, and I can give my gift away.