I remember when I took those spiritual gifts tests in college Bible studies. I was made miserable at most of the questions because they made me (if I was honest) admit that I was bad at prayer, worship, and evangelism. Then there were the things like “Shepherding” which were way to vague to mean much to me. But let me tell you this… the first time I saw that “administration” was on the list I knew I had hit the jackpot.
I’ve always been organized. When I was a teenager my dad bought himself a Franklin-Covey Daily Planner and I thought it was the coolest book I’d ever seen. I remember the little tabs and lists and check-boxes, and I remember begging my mom to buy me one. She bought me a cheap knock-off, but I was thrilled. I’ve come to realize that it is what some people call being a “control freak” – but if someone can put it on a gifts test then I’m going to run with calling it “administrative”. It is a gift that drives other people crazy, but it’s mine and I love it.
Lately though, while participating on the Host Committee for the City Vision Regional CCDA Conference, I came to the conclusion that no amount of my planning details, asking questions, knowing answers, lists, printouts or diagrams will replace the creator of the universe. I know, it’s not really an earth shattering detail to anyone else. And it is not exactly a new concept for me. But once again I’m struck by the fact that if prayer is not at the top of my list of to-dos then I might as well throw even the most gifted list into the trash.
The creator gives us his ear and I’ve been often too engrossed in my notes to bother. After all, I’ve got everything under control. Well, enough of that! I think it’s high time I try being committing some more of my detail-swamped self to the whispers that will hopefully get his attention.
Lord, help me.