The Littlest Part Plays a Big Role

Our Sunday School teacher’s object lesson last week was a simple and quick one, but one that has stayed with me still. He handed pieces of a flashlight to different people as he said how sometimes we may feel as if we are the littlest and most insignificant member of the church because we believe we have nothing to offer. The point was to illustrate how we all bring something to the table which is crucial for the well-being and efficient functioning of our body of believers. We all have gifts, and when we think our gifts are not usable or important, we are sorely mistaken. 

All of us who had parts of the flashlight were to put it together, which was interesting because, of course, we couldn't figure it out and then the teacher had to “teach” us how to do it right…gift of teaching... : ) Then he took the flashlight into his hands, turned it on and it still didn't work…it was missing the littlest part…the tiny bulb. "What if the one with the light bulb had decided that his part wasn't worth anything and he’d rather hide it…?"  Hmm...

It is not until the one with the littlest part decides to offer it for the service of the church that the flashlight would able to function properly and bring light to the world!

For just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, so in Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your faith; if it is serving, then serve; if it is teaching, then teach; if it is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously; if it is to lead, do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully. Romans 12: 4-8

Grace has been given to each of us; therefore, we all have a purpose in God’s plan. Let’s say yes, and have Him lead us in His path of service. Let’s step out and express our willingness to plug ourselves into the outlet of the church. After all, “to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good.” (1 Corinthians 12: 7) It is by answering the call, answering it with a yes and by presenting our Spirit-given gifts as an offering for the use of God's purpose and for the common good that we’ll find out what we are made for. Who knows? We may discover we are the light bulb!