How can we make ourselves more valuable this year? Simply do what is expected, then do a little more. Go the first mile, then go the second mile with a smile. Look for ways to give yourself away as Onesiphorus. “The Lord give mercy unto the house of Onesiphorus; for he oft refreshed me, and was not ashamed of my chain: But… sought me out very diligently, and found me…and in how many things he ministered unto me…” (2 Tim. 1:16-17). Alone in prison, Paul was often refreshed by Onesiphorus.” Onesiphorus made himself more valuable as he ministered without recognition and praise. My Onesiphorus poem: “Did I do my all, when no one knew and no one saw?” Not everyone is called to be a pastor or missionary, but everyone can be a Pollyanna or a Johnny Appleseed. Both brightened and blessed the lives of others they met. Some brighten the room as they enter, some brighten a room as they leave. Some bloom where planted, while others gloom unplanted.
Ministries need more volunteers. Foreign missions need more missionaries. Choirs need singers, classes need teachers, vans need drivers, and everyone needs a hug. Some could, some don’t, some won’t, but some do (Phil. 4:9). All are servants, some profitable and some unprofitable. The person who cannot, but tries, will become more valuable and profitable than those with greater abilities who do nothing. Do what you can with what you have (2 Cor. 8:12). When God gives you a gift, it pleases you. But when you use your gift, it pleases God. What are your gifts, abilities and skills? Are you using them? Some tools you can use to make yourself more valuable: smiles, kindnesses, hugs, rakes, cakes, pies, flowers, and cards.
But always remember – unwritten cards are never read. Also be willing to do what others will not do. Always do what is expected, then do a little more! The Lord can use everyone, you, you, and even you. Be an Onesiphorus and refresh others. Show hospitality as Aquila and Priscilla, give compassion as the Good Samaritan, and be a friend as Luke. Realize that at times, your presence is more than your presents. Remember, “Loving moments make lasting memories.” Help in neglected and overlooked areas. Do it as unto the Lord without praise or recognition (Col. 3:23). Don’t wait to be asked – do it. Remember there are no well-dones for undones. Real success is helping others succeed. Get involved! One can do much, but many can do much more. Moses did not build the Tabernacle, and Nehemiah did not build the wall. But many synergized together did build the wall, and Tabernacle. Nehemiah said, “So built we the wall” (Neh. 4:6). Coach Wooden (basketball) said, “It takes ten hands to make a basket.” One day we will all wish we had done more.
So let’s make ourselves “more” valuable in 2022.
