Embracing Our Unique Gifts in Community
Summary
On this beautiful Pentecost Sunday, we gather to celebrate the birth of the church and the wonderful gifts bestowed upon us by the Holy Spirit. As we come together, both in person and online, we are reminded that each one of us is a critical part of this community, gifted uniquely by God. I encourage everyone to check in, whether through the chat for our online attendees or by signing the blue connection pads for those present. This act symbolizes our desire to be part of this community and our acknowledgment that God calls each of us by name.
We begin our service with a joyous celebration of the Holy Spirit, often symbolized as a dove or fire, and invite everyone to rise in body or spirit to sing about this wonderful burning in our souls. Following this, we welcome our youngest disciples and their families to the front for a special moment of baptism. Baptism is an outward and visible sign of an inward and spiritual grace, a reminder that God's love reaches out to us even before we know how to respond. We emphasize God's initiative in reaching out to Ella and her brothers, surrounding them with love and reminding them that they are God's children.
During the baptism, we ask the parents and godparents to profess their faith and commitment to nurturing Ella in Christ's holy church. The congregation also plays a vital role, promising to surround Ella with love and acceptance, helping her recognize Jesus through our actions. We then proceed with the baptism, using water as a symbol of cleansing and life, and anointing with oil to signify the Holy Spirit's presence. Ella is now part of the larger Christian family, and we present her with a shell, symbolizing that wherever she goes, God will be her home.
As we continue, we reflect on the message Paul conveyed to the church in Corinth. Paul reminded them that although they had different gifts, they were all part of one body, united by the same Spirit, Lord, and God. This diversity of gifts is essential for the functioning of the body of Christ. Paul used the analogy of the body to illustrate that each member has a unique role, and all are necessary for the body to function properly. This analogy is beautifully demonstrated in our community, where different individuals contribute their unique gifts, whether through music, teaching, or acts of service.
We then delve into the concept of spiritual gifts, emphasizing that the Spirit gives us the energy and endurance to use our gifts for the benefit of the community. Each of us has a unique gift, and it is through the recognition and appreciation of these gifts that we can truly thrive as a community. Comparing ourselves to others can lead to feelings of inadequacy, but it is important to remember that every gift is valuable and necessary.
To illustrate the impact of using our gifts, we share the story of a woman who, after witnessing a baptism, felt called to help a local school. She realized that the children at the school were also children of God and deserved love and support. With the help of her church community, they formed a partnership with the school, providing tutoring, mentoring, and other forms of support. This relationship has flourished over the years, demonstrating the power of community and the importance of using our gifts to serve others.
We conclude with a powerful story about the reintroduction of gray wolves into Yellowstone Park. This story serves as a metaphor for the impact each of us can have on our community. Just as the wolves' presence led to a thriving ecosystem, our unique gifts can lead to a thriving community. We are reminded that withholding our gifts can have far-reaching consequences, and it is through our collective efforts that we can create a vibrant and loving community.
As we prepare to leave, we are encouraged to share our joys and concerns, knowing that we pray for one another. We are also reminded to recognize and affirm the gifts we see in each other, fostering a spirit of gratitude and appreciation. Finally, we are sent forth with the assurance that we are important to God's body, that our contributions are meaningful, and that the Spirit lives in us, guiding us to show God's love and grace to the world.
### Key Takeaways
1. The Significance of Baptism: Baptism is a profound symbol of God's love reaching out to us before we even know how to respond. It is an outward and visible sign of an inward and spiritual grace, emphasizing God's initiative in our lives. This sacrament reminds us that we are part of a larger Christian family, surrounded by a community that promises to nurture and support us in our faith journey. [13:56]
2. Unity in Diversity: Paul’s message to the Corinthians highlights the importance of diverse gifts within the body of Christ. Each member has a unique role, and all are necessary for the body to function properly. This diversity is a strength, not a weakness, and it is through the recognition and appreciation of these different gifts that the community can truly thrive. [52:11]
3. The Energy of the Spirit: The Spirit provides us with the energy and endurance to use our gifts for the benefit of the community. When we feel tired or inadequate, we can rely on the Spirit to fill us with power and perseverance. This divine energy enables us to continue offering our gifts, knowing that God is always present with us, empowering us to serve others. [52:45]
4. The Impact of Using Our Gifts: The story of the woman who helped a local school illustrates the profound impact of using our gifts to serve others. By forming a partnership with the school, the church community was able to provide much-needed support, demonstrating the power of collective effort. This story reminds us that our gifts, when used in service to others, can create lasting and meaningful change. [49:53]
5. The Ripple Effect of Our Actions: The reintroduction of gray wolves into Yellowstone Park serves as a powerful metaphor for the impact of our actions. Just as the wolves' presence led to a thriving ecosystem, our unique gifts can lead to a thriving community. Withholding our gifts can have far-reaching consequences, but when we offer our gifts, we contribute to the overall health and vitality of the community. [01:00:14]
### Youtube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[03:41] - Pentecost Celebration
[13:56] - Baptism Ceremony
[49:02] - Story of Community Service
[52:11] - Paul's Message to the Corinthians
[52:45] - The Energy of the Spirit
[55:04] - Embracing Our Unique Gifts
[59:13] - The Ripple Effect of Our Actions
[01:08:33] - Closing and Benediction
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1 Corinthians 12:4-11 (NIV)
> "There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit distributes them. There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord. There are different kinds of working, but in all of them and in everyone it is the same God at work. Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good. To one there is given through the Spirit a message of wisdom, to another a message of knowledge by means of the same Spirit, to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healing by that one Spirit, to another miraculous powers, to another prophecy, to another distinguishing between spirits, to another speaking in different kinds of tongues, and to still another the interpretation of tongues. All these are the work of one and the same Spirit, and he distributes them to each one, just as he determines."
#### Observation Questions
1. What are the two parts of baptism as described in the sermon? ([13:56])
2. According to Paul in 1 Corinthians 12, what is the source of the different gifts given to members of the church?
3. How did the woman in the sermon feel called to help the local school, and what actions did she take? ([49:02])
4. What was the impact of reintroducing gray wolves into Yellowstone Park, and how does this serve as a metaphor for using our gifts in the community? ([59:13])
#### Interpretation Questions
1. How does the concept of baptism as an "outward and visible sign of an inward and spiritual grace" emphasize God's initiative in our lives? ([13:56])
2. In what ways does Paul’s analogy of the body in 1 Corinthians 12 help us understand the importance of diverse gifts within the church?
3. Reflecting on the story of the woman who helped the local school, what does this teach us about the power of community and collective effort? ([49:02])
4. How does the story of the gray wolves in Yellowstone illustrate the potential consequences of withholding our gifts from the community? ([59:13])
#### Application Questions
1. Baptism is a reminder that we are part of a larger Christian family. How can you actively nurture and support someone in your church community this week? ([13:56])
2. Paul emphasizes the importance of diverse gifts within the body of Christ. What unique gift do you believe you have, and how can you use it to serve your church community? ([52:11])
3. The Spirit provides us with the energy and endurance to use our gifts. When have you felt tired or inadequate, and how did you rely on the Spirit to continue serving? ([52:45])
4. The woman in the sermon formed a partnership with a local school to provide support. Is there a local organization or cause you feel called to support? How can you involve your church community in this effort? ([49:02])
5. The reintroduction of gray wolves led to a thriving ecosystem. What small action can you take this week to contribute to the health and vitality of your community? ([59:13])
6. Reflect on a time when someone recognized a gift in you that you were unaware of. How can you be more attentive to recognizing and affirming the gifts in others? ([57:09])
7. How can you create a habit of sharing your joys and concerns with your church community, knowing that you pray for one another? ([01:02:25])
Devotional
Day 1: The Profound Symbol of Baptism
Baptism is a profound symbol of God's love reaching out to us before we even know how to respond. It is an outward and visible sign of an inward and spiritual grace, emphasizing God's initiative in our lives. This sacrament reminds us that we are part of a larger Christian family, surrounded by a community that promises to nurture and support us in our faith journey. Baptism is not just a ritual; it is a declaration that we belong to God and are embraced by His love and grace.
During the baptism ceremony, the congregation plays a vital role, promising to surround the baptized individual with love and acceptance, helping them recognize Jesus through our actions. This communal aspect of baptism highlights the importance of community in our spiritual journey. It is a reminder that we are not alone; we are part of a larger family that supports and nurtures us in our faith. [13:56]
1 Corinthians 12:13 (ESV): "For in one Spirit we were all baptized into one body—Jews or Greeks, slaves or free—and all were made to drink of one Spirit."
Reflection: How can you actively support and nurture someone in your faith community who has recently been baptized?
Day 2: Unity in Diversity
Paul’s message to the Corinthians highlights the importance of diverse gifts within the body of Christ. Each member has a unique role, and all are necessary for the body to function properly. This diversity is a strength, not a weakness, and it is through the recognition and appreciation of these different gifts that the community can truly thrive. The analogy of the body beautifully illustrates that every part, no matter how small or seemingly insignificant, is essential for the overall health and functioning of the body.
In our community, we see this diversity of gifts in action. Some contribute through music, others through teaching, and still others through acts of service. Each gift is valuable and necessary for the community to thrive. By recognizing and appreciating these diverse gifts, we can create a more inclusive and supportive environment where everyone feels valued and empowered to contribute. [52:11]
Romans 12:4-5 (ESV): "For as in one body we have many members, and the members do not all have the same function, so we, though many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another."
Reflection: What unique gift do you bring to your community, and how can you use it to support and uplift others?
Day 3: The Energy of the Spirit
The Spirit provides us with the energy and endurance to use our gifts for the benefit of the community. When we feel tired or inadequate, we can rely on the Spirit to fill us with power and perseverance. This divine energy enables us to continue offering our gifts, knowing that God is always present with us, empowering us to serve others. The Spirit's presence in our lives is a source of strength and encouragement, reminding us that we are not alone in our efforts.
In moments of doubt or fatigue, we can turn to the Spirit for renewal and strength. The Spirit's energy is not just for our benefit but for the benefit of the entire community. By relying on the Spirit, we can continue to serve others with joy and enthusiasm, knowing that our efforts are supported and empowered by God's presence. [52:45]
Isaiah 40:29-31 (ESV): "He gives power to the faint, and to him who has no might he increases strength. Even youths shall faint and be weary, and young men shall fall exhausted; but they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint."
Reflection: When you feel tired or inadequate, how can you rely on the Spirit to renew your strength and perseverance?
Day 4: The Impact of Using Our Gifts
The story of the woman who helped a local school illustrates the profound impact of using our gifts to serve others. By forming a partnership with the school, the church community was able to provide much-needed support, demonstrating the power of collective effort. This story reminds us that our gifts, when used in service to others, can create lasting and meaningful change. It shows that even small actions, when combined with the efforts of others, can have a significant impact.
This partnership with the school not only benefited the children but also strengthened the bonds within the church community. It highlighted the importance of recognizing and responding to the needs around us, using our gifts to make a positive difference. By working together and supporting one another, we can create a more compassionate and supportive community that reflects God's love and grace. [49:53]
1 Peter 4:10 (ESV): "As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace."
Reflection: What is one way you can use your unique gifts to serve and support someone in your community today?
Day 5: The Ripple Effect of Our Actions
The reintroduction of gray wolves into Yellowstone Park serves as a powerful metaphor for the impact of our actions. Just as the wolves' presence led to a thriving ecosystem, our unique gifts can lead to a thriving community. Withholding our gifts can have far-reaching consequences, but when we offer our gifts, we contribute to the overall health and vitality of the community. This story reminds us that our actions, no matter how small, can have a significant and positive impact on those around us.
By embracing and using our gifts, we can create a ripple effect that extends beyond our immediate community. Our actions can inspire and encourage others to use their gifts, leading to a more vibrant and supportive environment. It is a reminder that we all have a role to play in building a thriving community, and our contributions, no matter how small, are valuable and necessary. [01:00:14]
Galatians 6:9 (ESV): "And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up."
Reflection: How can you use your gifts today to create a positive ripple effect in your community?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "And oftentimes we don't know it because it comes easy to us. And that's what makes it a gift. And so it's other people's responsibility to help you discover what your gift is. So that's part of this embracing community is that we have a responsibility to say to one another, you have an amazing gift for this. Thank you for sharing your gift." [58:04]
2. "It takes all of us because every single one of us has an impact. And you may not know what your impact is. But your impact has a powerful, is a powerful part of our body." [58:04]
3. "So I want to share with you a story that I know some of you have seen online. But in 1926, the last gray wolf was killed in Yellowstone Park. They thought that the wolves were just predators. And so they killed off all of the wolves. Well, after several years, actually probably about 80 years, some scientists decided that they wanted to rebuild the gray wolf population. And so they reintroduced a pack of wolves into Yellowstone. What they weren't expecting, though, was what an impact that had on the entire community. And that was the ecosystem of Yellowstone." [59:13]
4. "And so when we think about wanting to withdraw or wanting to say, my gift isn't important, I want you to remember those wolves. Because every single one of you impacts our community. And our community is a wonderful, powerful gift." [01:01:21]
5. "So I invite you to join me. Don't be like that wolf and withhold your gift. Join this beautiful body of Christ so that we can show God's love and grace to the world." [01:02:25]
### Quotes for Members
1. "And so I was reminded of a story of a woman who had been to a baptism in her church. And as she was driving by a school every single day on her way to work. She realized that every single one of those children were also children of God. And that although they had not been baptized in her church. She still felt like God was already reaching out to them. Caring for them. And she noticed that they didn't come out to recess very often. That there weren't any sports teams. And it really started breaking her heart. And so she started asking. Asking, you know, but what can I do? I'm just one person. So she took it to her small group. And they started praying about it." [49:02]
2. "But that relationship is still strong today after 10 years. They continue to offer that love and that partnership. And they continue to experience the joy of being in relationship with children. Well, I think that's the kind of message that Paul was trying to explain to the church in Corinth. He had started this church. And, you know, they had squabbles. Now, doesn't that sound familiar? In case you were wondering, we're not the only church that has squabbles. And there were people who left and people who came back and all that other good stuff, right? Because they were human. They were just like us. And so he was writing to them. But he was reminding them that they're not all going to be the same. Because every single one of them has different gifts." [51:16]
3. "Now there's a variety of gifts. Right? A variety of services. A variety of activities. But it's the same spirit. The same Lord. The same God. And one real quick thing, because I just, I love this. The word for activities in this translation is energetso in the Greek. Energetso. What does that sound like? Energy. Right? So sometimes we feel tired and we think, oh, my gosh. I don't know if I have the energy for this. Well, guess what? The spirit gives you the energy. The spirit fills you with that sense of power and endurance so that you can continue to offer your gifts." [52:11]
4. "And it's this sense that God is present with us in so many ways. We talk about Jesus living in us. We talk about the spirit giving us gifts. We talk about God providing for us. God is always there with us. And every single one of us has a gift. But there are different gifts. So your gift is not the same as mine. Thank God. My gift's not the same as yours." [52:45]
5. "And so the problem is, when we start comparing, we start sometimes feeling less than. And then we feel like we're not very creative. And yet, it's that creative spirit that works through all of our gifts. And Epworth does this so beautifully. We heard about the food today. But I saw the soup team yesterday in the kitchen. And under the direction of Dottie, it was Dottie's soup team. And, you know, they take whatever comes in. And they create something amazing out of it, something delicious out of it. Right? And so that's a gift. That's a gift of creativity." [55:04]
6. "And so all of these gifts work together. And when we're tempted to compare, then we devalue both our gift and the gifts of others. Because we would all be in trouble. If all of us were accountants and none of us were Sunday school teachers. We would be in serious trouble if all of us were singers and none of us were music appreciators. We would be in trouble if there weren't people in the booth putting together all of this production. And yet each of these parts works together to make something beautiful. And so I want you to know that every single one of you has an amazing gift." [56:18]
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