Today’s sermon entitled “Family Gifts” encourages us to reflect more deeply on how we function within God’s true intention for us in the world. We are reminded that we are not only connected in Christ and that we are bearers of the image of Christ, but we also are woven together by God’s design into an amazing tapestry from the gifts God uniquely wires into each of us.

 With that said, what are your gifts?

 In reality, some of us may know that we are good organizers, or that we have great vocal talent, or that we are blessed to be able to work with proficiency in our careers.  This is important, but what is your “family gift?” Put another way: within God’s design for your life in faithfulness, where are you best placed to live out a calling within God’s church? How does that relate to making disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world?

 Reflect upon this in your prayer and devotional life. You are also encouraged to do some evaluative work.  Ask a Christian friend their perception of your gifts in serving Christ?  Listen carefully, and then share those insights with God.  Consider taking a spiritual gifts inventory, or several even. The UMC offers a quick assessment at: http://www.umc.org/what-we-believe/spiritual-gifts-online-assessment. There are also other excellent free on-line tools for spiritual gifts assessment, as well as books for this exploration. Prayerfully reflect on your findings with the goal of discerning God’s current call for use of your gifts.

 For those who have done this type of assessment in the past, please know that many times gifts change as your life and context change, so revisit the topic and offer up your findings to God who seeks you to serve and love in fullness within God’s holy family. This calling never ceases or wanes. It may just simply manifest differently at different stages of life.