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Wednesday, July 3, 2024

“Here I am, Use Me”

I’ve discovered a timeless truth: no matter what life brings, God can transform our willingness into something wonderful. From a young age, a spark within me longed to serve in ministry. As I grew, the flame of my calling burned brighter, guiding me to stand alongside my pastor and his wife in faithful service. With two little ones by my side, I embraced every opportunity to support our church family- from preparing the sanctuary to singing a spontaneous solo when needed. My heart was always ready to say, “Here I am, use me!” Without being asked, I’d arrive early to ensure everything was in order, just as I would welcome guests into my own home. My dedication earned me a sacred trust - the key to the church buildings - and eventually, a place on the payroll, doing what I would have done for free, but with a newfound sense of purpose and belonging.

My dream job was my holy grail, the place where God’s purpose and my passion converged. But life had other plans. Divorce and single motherhood to two tiny tots thrust me into a new reality. I traded ministry for a secretary’s desk at an HCA hospital, struggling to keep up with the demands of my new normal. Stress, anxiety, and self-doubt crept in, whispering lies that God’s calling was lost forever. How could I serve Him with a heart in shambles? Yet, in His grace, He proved me wrong. I discovered that my weaknesses didn’t disqualify me; they made me relatable. Our strengths inspire, but our weaknesses give hope. Hallelujah, indeed!

“And He said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me.” 2 Corinthians 12:9

This picture of me with my two littles was taken when I was a single mom, working full-time and still doing ministry in the 80’s.