Devotional Messages

DEVOTIONAL MESSAGE

2 Timothy 2:20-21 – In a large house there are utensils not only of gold and silver but also of wood and clay, some for special use, some for ordinary.  All who cleanse themselves of the things I have mentioned will become special utensils, dedicated and useful to the owner of the house, ready for every good work. (NRSV)

We spend a lot of time with the Body of Christ metaphor that Paul wrote about in his first letter to the Corinthians.  It’s important to know that everyone, including you, has a special part to play in the work God is doing in our world.  But sometimes, it’s hard to figure out what the meaning of being the spleen of Christ might be.  That’s a good moment to turn to this other metaphor Paul offers in the second letter to Timothy.

So if you could be any kind of utensil in the house of God, what would you be?  There are so many options!  Some folks might feel like their role is that of an everyday spoon, used often, not particularly remarkable, ready to scoop whatever needs scooping.  Or maybe you’re a grapefruit spoon, a little more specialized, knowing that there are certain things you can do better than most other folks, but also available for regular spoon duty if absolutely necessary.

I’m pretty sure Paul means “utensil” in the widest possible definition here, so tools are included too.  Maybe you’re a basic hammer.  But maybe sometimes you’re a post hole digger, the only one that can do that one particular job.  Maybe you’re a fan, helping to make others comfortable.  Maybe you’re that seemingly random piece of wood that we keep around because it’s just the right size to prop the window open.

There may even be times when you’re doing the “fancier” work of the church that might make you a golden cup or a sterling ladle.  The point is, we all have different ways to contribute.  Some of the work is stuff most anyone can do, if only someone will.  And other jobs are something only you can do.  One day you may be a butter knife, and the next week you might be serving as a jigsaw.  All of these utensils together are what help make the house of God a hospitable home for all!