I am reading Ortberg’s book again (hoping to finish it this time) If You Want to Walk on Water, You’ve Got to Get Out of the Boat. Early on, he spends some time looking at the master and the gift of the different talents to his servants. This quote is from one of the sub-themes that runs through the discussion.
As I age, I find that I do less jealous comparing with other people. Instead, I try to focus on counting my blessings and what God has given me. I remember during a performance appraisal, one of my bosses said that I had a tendency to hide my talents under a bushel and that I needed to own them and let them shine. The fact that she used a biblical reference during my evaluation made me take note. Like the little girl in the photo, it is easy to hide under a bushel.
There is though a tragedy of not opening and using the gifts given. As I read this book, I do find myself taking note of many points—one being that we often do not use the gift out of fear. I have another memory of a time gone by. I had taken a Life in the Spirit seminar years ago. When I was being prayed over, one of my friends had the image of Christ standing before me holding a silver tray, filled with beautifully wrapped gifts. The image both frightened and blessed me. What an awesome vision! While the beauty of abundance is not lost on me, the terror of responsibility to open and use well all those gifts remains with me.
There was a time in my life when I did compare myself with others. Now I just try to compare myself with myself. Was there a time when I could do this? When I would have been more willing? More fearful? Less capable? Less critical? Am I doing this for the right reasons? Can I live with myself if I do this deed? Can I if I do not?
I do know that it begins with the desire to step out of the boat and trust the One who has given the talents with wisdom and confidence. May I always keep my eyes on the Giver.
Peace,
Suzanne
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