The Dazzling Gemstones In God's Jewelry Case Series

But sharing our light can be a frightening thing. Inspirational author Marianne Williamson nailed it when she wrote this:

“Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness, that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous? Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small doesn’t serve the world.”

We are called to be light. We’re called to be the dazzling gemstones in God’s jewelry case. I was thinking this week about some of our gems here at Hope.

This pondering started with A____ A____, whose memorial service was yesterday. A____ was a real gem. It was her generosity that led to the creation of this lovely central stained window. It really defines our space in here. Beyond that amazing gift, A_____ was a dedicated quilter. Think of the warmth she was able to supply to so many people across our globe. She was also part of the service team at every funeral luncheon.

Who are other examples of gemstones? These are random and in no particular order:

B_____ B_____ – If you need something fixed, B______ has the knowhow. Leanne O’Bryan at Rachel’s Place has B____’s number programmed into her phone.

C_____ and C_____ C_____ – C_____ and C_____ have been teaching Sunday School for 3 and 4-year-olds for at least 25 years. They’ve taught an entire generation.

D_____ D_____ – D_____ is in 7th grade and he brings his technological skills every Sunday to help us with our cameras for streaming our services. He knows a lot about electronics.

E______ E_____ – E______ started helping as one of our assisting ministers when he was still in high school and he’s continued doing so through college. He’s led prayers and distributed communion elements.

This is just a sampling of the dazzling gems sharing their light in our ministries. We grow and stretch through serving in Christ’s name. And there is joy in the sharing. In giving of ourselves and our abilities, our joy is increased. Abundant joy comes through overflowing generosity.