October 9
"Each one should use whatever gift he has
received to serve others, faithfully administering
God's grace in its various forms." 1 Peter 4:10
Among the early Christians it was arranged, in
an especially good way, that each had his place
where he could serve the others. Almost all of
them had been given such gifts as they could
use in the service of all. The gifts were meant to
be for the whole so that none came too short
and each one could blossom. The apostle
wishes to say that you should do what is useful
for the whole by serving one another and
making use of your gifts, as required, in order to
show your faithfulness.
Do not stand to one side with your arms folded,
criticizing, gossiping, judging, and shaking your
head over everything you see and hear about
others, especially those in authority. You should
rather help where you see help is needed, with
what you have and in any way you are able. This
is how it should be among us. To be sure, the
gifts are different, and yet much is given to many
people by which, as occasion offers, they can
better serve the others, whether through advice,
admonishment, or warning, or by visiting,
offering inner comfort, and lending help in word
and deed.
Johann Christoph Blumhardt, from
Papers from Bad Boll 1874.
-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-
A PRAYER FOR TODAY
Blumhardt's prayer for today and every day of the year.
http://blumhardts.com/bl/DailyPrayer.htm?source=Breakfast
Like what you read today? Share it with a friend.
Send them this URL:
http://blumhardts.com/bl/Subscribe.htm?source=Breakfast
© 2004 Bruderhof Communities.
|
