CONTAINERS OF BLESSING
17th Jul 2013
Reading stories of those who have done great things for God, seen remarkable miracles happen through them, and have effected vast numbers of people can be inspiring, but also depressing. It is thrilling to hear about such wonderful things, but it can make you feel very inadequate.
When Paul was writing to Timothy he used the kitchen as an example of a place full of various kinds of containers with many different uses, and then said, “Become the kind of container God can use to present any and every kind of gift to his guests for their blessing.” (2 Timothy 2:21 The Message)
There are many more “containers” out there who will never write a book or ever be a name that is recognised as famous, who are bringing blessing and healing to those God brings to them. You are one of those “containers” who simply needs to receive from “God’s fountain of Living Water” and then “Pour it Out” upon those who cross your path. (John 7:38)
That is what happened with the Samaritan. He found the man battered by the roadside, he saw the need, he had compassion, he stopped, he poured in oil and wine, he took him to a place of safety, he kept in touch until the man was restored. We do not know the name of the Samaritan, or the name of the victim, yet it is a story that has challenged and inspired us all.
Think about it - the Samaritan was not looking for someone in need, he just happened to arrive at the moment of crisis, he did not criticise those who had done nothing, he got off his donkey and showed mercy and love.
Today there are those who you will meet who are in crisis, battling illness and disease, struggling with discouragement and self worth, in family crisis, feeling lonely and neglected, or whose lives are empty and without God, who need you to be a “container of blessing” who will pour in oil and wine and bring them just what they need.
by Charles Sibthorpe
