It's so easy to just keep reaching up, reaching for more, seeking out people who are doing what you only hope to be doing, to inspire and teach you. And this is great. Really, mentorship is a great thing you guys. But this isn't how we are supposed to live. It's not all about what can be done for us. No, when we are reaching up, we need to be reaching to God, for greater compassion, for greater love, for greater strength, so that when we serve, we serve through Him. Looking up to Him, so we can then fix our gazes lower to see those we can help and serve. I mean yes, I get this excitement, something inside of me is just ignited when I'm in a room full of talent and surrounded by a community of artists where I just feel overwhelmed and inspired. But honestly, Ive learned so much more about the fruits of the spirit in moments when I've been able to connect with or aide someone that was in need of a service that I was able to provide. I've experienced most of my greatest, most in depth moments with God when I've been able to pray over and for people in my generation, who are confused, hurting, lost, and yearning for more.
I think this reminder by my sweet insta friend, Meshali is just great summary of this.
"Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms. If anyone speaks, they should do so as one who speaks the very words of God. If anyone serves, they should do so with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen." - 1 Peter 4:9-11
"We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your[a] faith; 7 if it is serving, then serve; if it is teaching, then teach; 8 if it is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously; if it is to lead,[b] do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully". - Romans 12:6-8
"Bless your enemies; no cursing under your breath. Laugh with your happy friends when they’re happy; share tears when they’re down. Get along with each other; don’t be stuck-up. Make friends with nobodies; don’t be the great somebody." - Romans 12:17
Each of us has a desire inside of us to do something great, as we see greatness in our own eyes. Whether that be to become famous or helping to discover a cure for a disease or saving wildlife or to serve The Lord with all of our being. And that's wonderful. But I know I have to remember to lock my focus on the greatest things I've been called to do in this life:
“‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ - Matthew 22:37-39
