There are some “strange” people at our church. They like cooking! For example, Tim, my brother-in-law who is also in our Community Group has been cooking for every meeting. And I’m not talking about light snacks, but full and heavy meals. Mrs. Taylor and Mrs. Fejarang are the same way. They have been cooking for the whole church as long as I can remember. Dara did the same for the youth while she was with us…

I say “strange” because they actually seem to enjoy cooking for others. When I ask them with obvious concerns of burning out, they would reply with, “I do it because I want to. It gives me joy!”

I realized that the reason why I worry about them burning out is because I myself don’t enjoy cooking. Since I don’t enjoy cooking, I naturally think that others can’t possibly enjoy cooking either. So, when they do, they are doing so out of obligation, for the good of the body. But the reality is that, they are gifted in that area. And that’s why they enjoy exercising their gift to serve the body of Christ.

My gifting is entirely different. I ENJOY reading the Bible, listening and studying theology, and preaching. Most people find this boring and laborious. But I actually enjoy doing it. I love serving the body of Christ through my giftings, which brings me joy as well.

And that is how a body of Christ is supposed to operate. Each member exercising its gift for the good of the body and doing so should also bring joy to the member.

“Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; and there are varieties of service, but the same Lord; and there are varieities of activities, but it is the same God who empowers them all in everyone. To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good.” 1 Cor 12:4-6

What brings you joy that would be good for the body?

When you don’t serve the body, your joy drops…

PH