CCOG Newsletter

Recently we watched "The Sandlot," a great movie from the early 90's. I remember watching it as a kid and having a bit of a crush on Benny "The Jet" Rodriguez (major confession, I know!). Maybe the attraction was his olive skin and dark, wavy hair. It could have also been that he seemed so cool. Upon this more recent watching, I noticed something that I had not previously.

For those who have never seen the film, it is about a pre-teen boy, Scottie, who has recently moved to a new town. He is a little dorky, more cerebral than athletic. His dad had died way before teaching him how to play catch, and he was still getting used to his new stepdad. As his adult self narrates the film, he makes clear how nervous he was about making new friends. Scottie follows a group of boys to the sandlot, where they are playing baseball. His attempts to catch and throw fail miserably, and he is mocked by the other boys for his lack of baseball skills. Later, Benny finds Scottie and invites him to return to the game the next day. Benny even gives him a glove that is well broken in. When he arrives the following day, Benny takes the time to teach him how to throw the ball. As well, Benny (the best player on the team) aims his hit so well that the ball lands in Scottie's open glove.

We all want to be a part of something. We all want to feel valued, not just for what we contribute, but also for who we are. We could all stand to be a little more like Benny - welcoming, teaching, and cheering one another on.

Many believers assume God uses pastors, evangelists and church planters in missions, but not necessarily accountants, project managers, photographers or IT specialists. Yet throughout Scripture, God consistently uses ordinary people and everyday skills to accomplish extraordinary Kingdom purposes.

The Bible begins with work; before there was sin, there was meaningful labour. God created humanity to cultivate, create, steward and serve. Our work was never meant to be separate from God's purposes.

We see this throughout the Bible. Joseph used his administrative gifts to save nations during a famine. Daniel served God through leadership in government. Bezalel, the craftsman who helped build the Tabernacle, was filled by God's Spirit with skill, ability and craftsmanship. The first person specifically described as being filled with the Spirit was not a prophet or king, but a skilled worker. God cares deeply about how His people use their gifts.

Jamie from the UK, knew from childhood that God was calling him to missions. Yet instead of heading straight overseas, God led him into a successful career in information technology. For years he worked in a multi-million-pound company, developing technical expertise, problem-solving skills and leadership experience. At the time, he thought his main contribution to missions would be supporting mission workers financially. Looking back, he now sees God was preparing him for a future role serving global ministry teams through technology. What looked like a secular career was actually Kingdom preparation.

The same was true for Julie, a professional photographer. When she joined OM, she noticed ministry leaders spending valuable time trying to write stories and take photographs. Using her professional skills enabled others to focus on their ministry while she captured and communicated what God was doing through her ministry.

The same God who gifted Bezalel, Joseph, Daniel, Jamie and Julie is the God who has gifted you. Your profession may not look particularly spiritual, but every skill surrendered to God can become part of His mission.

Reflect

• What skills has God entrusted to you?
• Where have you seen God use your work to bless others?

Prayer

Lord, help me recognize that the gifts and skills You have given me belong to You. Show me how they can be used to bring glory to Your name and make Christ known among the nations.

Take Action

Write down three professional or personal skills God has given you. Ask Him how each one might be used in service to others.