God has given each of us many gifts and talents. It is our job to manage those well, too. Sure, money is needed for the heat and the lights and to take care of all the other costs that go along with keeping a faith community alive and thriving. But communities also benefit from the other gifts their members give as well.

Do you like to cook? Do you sing everywhere you go? Do you have a special knack for fixing things? Are you a toddler magnet? Perhaps you’re gifted with the ability to listen to someone who just needs a conversation partner. These are just a few examples to get you thinking about the multitude of possible gifts you really have to offer a community of faith.

Reflect on what other gifts and talents you have been blessed with. Take an inventory. Make a list. Really! It is important to value who we are and what we have to offer. Even better, make a list and then swap with a trusted companion. Fill in the blanks for them if you see any missed gifts, and ask them to do the same for you.

After you make your personal gift inventory, see what kinds of things your faith community might need. Is there an existing need that you might help fill? Do you see the potential to start something new where your gifts might be instrumental? Remember, it isn’t just the big and life-changing stuff that will surface (although that’s cool, too). Be on the lookout for the seemingly small ways that you can be contribute to the well-being and vitality of your faith community.

Most importantly, pray. Ask God that your eyes, your ears, and your heart be opened to see, hear, and respond to help meet the needs of Gods people. Who knows what will become of your gifts? But I can guarantee at least one outcome: Your community will benefit from your involvement. The good and wise management of your gifts will make a positive impact on your own well-being, too.

Don’t you feel better already?

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