Generating Greatness: Enduring

Brothers and sisters, think of what you were called. Not many of you were wise by human standards: not many were influential: not many were of noble birth. But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise: God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong. God chose the lowly things of this world and the despised things – and the things that are not – to nullify the things that are, so that no one may boast before him. But by His doing you are in Christ Jesus, who became to us wisdom from God, and righteousness and sanctification, and redemption, so that just as it is written, LET HIM WHO BOASTS, BOAST IN THE LORD. –  1 Corinthians 1:26-31

In his book “The Greatest Generation,” Tom Brokaw shares stories told by individual men and women who endured the Great Depression and the Second World War. This generation went on to fight in the Korean War and live to build modern America. They were united with a common purpose but also the common values of duty, honor, courage, service, love of country, family responsibility, and most importantly, an abiding faith. They endured so much but I have yet to hear anyone from that generation boast of what they did. Many have shared with me that it was “The good Lord who saw me through.”

Most of these great Americans were common, ordinary people, not of noble birth or high influence. Most men and women were without political clout or power. And yet, what a lasting difference they made in American history.

In this passage from Corinthians, the apostle Paul makes a point of recognizing that Christ’s disciples were chosen by God. Ordinary people like you and me. They were made up of the “working class”. We do not need power and influence to be greatly used by God. Every generation of “ordinary” people known to mankind has had its moments of greatness. As Mother Teresa once said, “Not all of us can do great things. But we can do small things with great love.”

This does not mean God does not often use people with status and power. He does this hoping they use their influence and usefulness derived from His very presence in their lives. May they, too, boast of His goodness!

Through God’s wisdom, He has given us righteousness, sanctification, and redemption to be called in Christ Jesus. God has chosen us to serve Him and provides the strength we need to further His kingdom. As the Lord said to Paul, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my Strength is made perfect in weakness…” 2 Corinthians 12:9.

Will you boast in the Lord the next time you serve Him? Will you give all glory to Him for His presence in your life? Will you thank Him for calling you to be His child?

Holy Father, I am ordinary, but thank you for making me extraordinary in your eyes. Continue to bless me with your enduring love and strength as you guide my footsteps. May I give all praise and glory to you. Amen

 

Written by Janece Nelson.