Life as a Christian Woman

Vacation Bible School started at my church today. As of yesterday’s count, 220 children had pre-registered to attend, and there will be many “walk ins” this morning. Children are the world’s most precious asset. They are adored by God with a love we can’t even imagine. “But Jesus called them unto him, and said, Suffer little children to come unto me, and forbid them not; for of such is the kingdom of God.” (Luke 18:16) I think I am the only Christian woman I know that does not have the God given talent for working with children!

Pastor Daniel held a dedication prayer for all the VBS workers in church yesterday. He called them to come forward so the congregation could pray for them. The only women left in their seats were those that work outside the home, and me. Don’t get me wrong; I love my son and stepson more than life itself. But give me a group of three or more children and I will demonstrate a meltdown for you. I have a very low tolerance and no patience for other people’s children. As I watched all those women and teenagers walk toward the front of the worship hall, I thought, “God, did you forget something??” I obviously did not inherent the gene required for gently corralling children, leading them in activities, and quietly guiding them in proper behavior. Whenever I have been asked to participate in a children’s activity at church, it takes me less than two seconds to respond with an emphatic, “No!”

I have a great admiration for women like Jean Lockwood, a minister’s wife and mother of seven. I can imagine a house full of the laughter of children and family outings with doting parents rejoicing in their young ones’ discoveries. I can also imagine my nerves fraying like a worn steel cable and the migraine I would have afterwords! I imagine myself conversing with God, thanking Him for the many talents He has given me, but asking, “Why not kids, who are so precious in your sight?”

I have accepted this truth, though, and believe that the body of Christ requires all kinds of people to function properly. I have been given a talent for writing, and the opportunity to work from home so I may put my skills to good use to further the kingdom of God. God has granted me the personality type for being perfectly content to spend my days alone in my home office; he has afforded me the gift of self-motivation and imagination; he has gifted me with a love for language and literacy. So maybe to me, 220 children, as special as they are, would be its own kind of hell. But I can write for children and introduce them to power of reading, the emotions of poetry, and the wonders of the written word to take them to far away places and meet wonderful people. Perhaps he didn’t forget me, afterall. He simply gave me the gifts he needed for his kingdom at this time.

What are your God given talents? What gifts have you been given to further the kingdom of God and the body of Christ?

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