Got Gifts?

It's the times in our life when we sit alone, in the quiet, listening for the voice of our savior to shine through when Christ reveals to us life changing opportunities. As I spent time this weekend to slow down, sit in the presence of my Lord, and listen to his voice I learned a few things about my heart that only Christ could uncover. It was a verse from holy scripture I least expected to hear. To be honest, I was completely taken by surprise when I was led me to it - 1 Timothy 4:14: "Do not neglect the gift that is in you." However, suddenly it all started to make sense. My heart had been heavy these past few weeks, especially about beginning a new semester, and leaving my family after a much needed and enjoyed Christmas Vacation. It would be a complete lie to say I was thrilled about returning. That was, until, my heart was ministered to by the Lord.
Jeremiah 1:4 tells us that Christ knew us before we were ever born, in fact, we learn in Ephesians 1:11 that we were thought of at creation. We arrived on this earth in the form of small miracles destined to achieve great things! What I was losing sight of was the gifts that I was put on this earth with: music, and ministry. What gifts were you sent to this earth with? Are you spending time nurturing these gifts or neglecting them much like I was? Dr. Seuss wrote, “You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself in any direction you choose. You're on your own. And you know what you know. You are the guy who'll decide where to go.” Where are your God given talents going to take you today?
As I was sprinting across campus today I saw a group of children from the campus pre-school walking across the street. I couldn't help but stop and stare knowing that in that group of children could be the scientist who finds the cure for cancer, a nobel peace prize winner, or future president of the United States. We were all once there, walking in those tiny shoes, only (what seems like) years ago, and look where we are today! Is God getting the glory for the talents you posses and for the person you have become? I encourage you to take some time today, and in the days ahead, to do exactly as I did and slow down, and sit in the silence to give praise to the one who carries you close to his heart.