"A Really Useful Engine"

I am sitting here at my cluttered desk, sipping coffee and sorting my thoughts to the sound of Thomas the Tank Engine going behind me. I'm not sure why I haven't turned it off. It lulled Rileigh Cait to sleep a good 10 minutes ago.

It gives me flash backs to Declan's pre-preschool days. He loves Thomas and would go through spells of wanting to watch it all day long. Of all the cartoons my kids could get obsessive about, Thomas was the one I appreciated the most. The engines all had their different personalities with good and bad points, consequences came with bad decision, rewards were given for bad choices, and all the good engines aspired to be a "really useful engine."

As I type, an episode about 'James' is playing. He is Declan's favorite and a lot like Declan. In a hurry, a little proud, fun loving, and on the go. In this particular episode James' rushing through his small jobs to get to the fun part gets him into trouble. I can relate to that!

I've been convicted this week about not seeing God's use for me in the small jobs. I struggle, many times, with the fact that my life is not what I thought it would be. I get to thinking that I haven't accomplished what I had planned to do; therefore, I start to believe I haven't accomplished anything important. I really just want to be a useful engine for God.

He reminds me, in the loving, scolding way that only He can do, that every job He gives me is important and that by doing these jobs well, I am being useful. The question in Zechariah 4:10 comes to mind. " 'Does anyone dare despise this day of small beginnings? They'll change their tune when they see Zerubbabel setting the last stone in place!' " (the Message)

Please pray with me.

Lord, you know my heart's desire is to be useful for your kingdom. Thank you for changing me into a person who desires that. Thank you for giving me opportunities to do Your work, big or small. Thank you for helping me to see that all jobs are important in your eyes. Please help me to be content with my small beginnings. I know one day I'll be putting my last 'stone' in place on the dreams you've given me, and I want you to have all the glory from beginning to end. Please open my eyes to chances you are giving me to be useful so that I won't miss out. Big or small, this life is Yours. Amen