And in the church God has appointed…those able to help others. 1 Corinthians 12:28 NIV
...Name the five wealthiest people in the world.
...Name the last five Heisman Trophy winners.
...Name the last five winners of the Miss America contest.
...Name ten people who have won the Nobel or Pulitzer Prize.
...Name the last six Academy Award winners for best actor/actress.
...Name the last decade’s worth of World Series winners.
Few of us remember the previous headliners. They are the best in their fields. But achievements are forgotten and awards tarnish. Accolades and certificates fade and get filed.
Here’s another quiz. See how you do on this one:
...List teachers who aided your journey through school.
...Name three friends who have helped you through a difficult time.
...Name three people who have taught you something worthwhile.
...Think of a few people who have made you feel appreciated and special.
...Think of three people you enjoy spending time with.
...Name half a dozen real-life heroes whose stories have inspired you.
Easier? The people who make a difference in your life are not the ones with the most credentials, the most money, or the most awards. They are the ones who care.
Are you a hero or an inspiration to someone else? You are if you complimented someone at work, wrote a supportive letter to the newspaper op-ed page, donated a pint to the local blood bank, rehearsed with a church vocalist, drove a teenager to a youth meeting, took your neighbor to the doctor, or cut a bouquet of roses for a friend for no reason at all. They’re a few of the answers to the question: What would Jesus do?
One gift of the Holy Spirit is to be a helper and encourager (1 Corinthians 12:28). It’s listed along with apostles, teachers, administrators, and those gifted with language. And it directly precedes chapter 13, about the greatest gift of God: love for others. It’s all about love and relationship.
