Using our Gifts to Serve
Last month, I started an English class at INESIN. Originally the class was only for the INESIN staff, but at the last minute, it was decided to open it up to anyone who wanted to come. Currently, I have around 12 or so Spanish speaking students. Some of them are very beginner and some of them have had some exposure to English in the past. Having a mixed class can be both very helpful and very stressful at times due to the material being taught. Thankfully, I haven’t had many problems having a mixed class. The more advanced students who understand a few things actually help me explain topics that I have a hard time explaining in Spanish. In my class, we are a team. It works. I like teaching the class, and the students keep coming back for more, so I know that they enjoy taking the class.
Some may ask the question, “how is teaching English missionary work?” Believe it or not, there are a lot of missionaries whose sole purpose is to teach English. Over the years, Global Ministries has supported many missionaries who were English teachers.
When doing mission work, God asks you to use your talents. In the “parable of the talents,” we get an idea of what God expects us to do here on earth. We’re all given talents, some great and some small–but whether your talent is epic or miniscule, we glorify God when we use it.
God isn’t rating us based on the number of converts we win over or the number of church pews we fill; God is interested in the passion with which we use whatever gifts we have been given us.
“We have different gifts, according to the grace given us. If a man’s gift is prophesying, let him use it in proportion to his faith. If it is serving, let him serve; if it is teaching, let him teach; if it is encouraging, let him encourage; if it is contributing to the needs of others, let him give generously; if it is leadership, let him govern diligently; if it is showing mercy, let him do it cheerfully.”
Romans 12:6-8
Because I have a writing degree and have certification and experience in teaching English, my gift is teaching English. If I can teach English to others successfully, then I believe that I have pleased my Lord. My question to you is, “What are your talents?” What is it that you can do in your life to help others in their lives?