Over the last several weeks, the second reading in our Lectionary have been from I Corinthians. We had several lessons from I Corinthians 12 and 14, which discuss spiritual gifts.

I don’t think that these portions of Scripture are primarily about charismatic gifts, but rather about “fitting in.” Specifically, how your gifts, talents, and abilities are uniquely designed to build Christ’s church.

The greatest frustration that I find in ministry is NOT that there are too few people to do too much of the ministry of the Church (this will always be the case). Rather, the frustration comes when people with good intentions try to fill positions for which they are not suited. They are square pegs trying to jam themselves into round holes because they have come to believe they have to be what they are not.

I can only imagine how frustrating that must be for those square pegs. They have good intentions and a heart to serve God, yet they are trying to accomplish tasks for which they are not suited. I’m not talking about people who are growing in their abilities and service, but those who have neither skill nor heart for the task they are trying to accomplish. In the end, even if things get done, there is more relief than joy in their completion.

If I am describing you, take this as permission to stop doing what you don’t have the gifts, calling, or passion to do. BUT, don’t take this as permission to stop serving Christ by serving others. If you’re a square peg in a round hole, find a square hole. I believe that God wants you not only to serve, but to find joy in service.

I pray you get to work in serving the loving Christ by serving and loving others AND that you have a joyous time doing it.