A Lesson In Usefulness

August 19th, 2006

The New Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines the word “useful” as “capable of being put to use”, and “serviceable for a beneficial end”.

In our lives, we desire to be many things. We seek to be popular and well-liked, and to fit in with those around us. We try to make ourselves attractive and interesting. But deep down, I believe we all desire to be useful as well.

None of us wishes to work at a profession where our effort means nothing. No husband or wife wants to feel like their spouse doesn’t need them. In most cases, we wish to be useful, to be helpful and productive in what we do.

There’s a story in the ninth chapter of the book of John where the writer informs us that Jesus came across a man born blind. Those who watched from a distance debated why this man had been blind from birth. Whether it was a sin his parents had committed or whether he was blind to teach a lesson, the disciples knew that Jesus would no doubt change that man’s life forever.

They had seen many similar situations before. Perhaps they wondered how he would do it this time. Would he call fire down from heaven, or give the man back his sight with a great crash of lightning from the sky? Surely the Master could do it however he wished.

As they watched in amazement, however, they noticed that Jesus didn’t employ the wind or the skies, but rather used a handful of mud. That’s right. He spit on the ground, and made some mud, which he put on the blind man’s eyes. In moments, this man who had never had sight was experiencing life at its fullest, all because Jesus used a little bit of mud.

Did Jesus have to use mud? Did he have to use anything at all? I don’t think so. I fully believe that he could have spoken a simple word or breathed a single breath and the man would have been healed. He used the mud to prove a point.

If Christ can use a pile of wet dirt to change a person’s life, why can’t he use us to do the same? If a little mud can inspire a miracle, why can’t we be used for great things as well? I think far too often we underestimate Christ’s power. He’s powerful enough that he can even use those of us who mess up and get things wrong to do his work.

Throughout the Bible, God chooses the unlikely vessels. Moses, David, and Paul, for example, all got things wrong at one point or another. But, if they can be used, if even a little mud can be manipulated for special purposes, I believe Christ can indeed make us useful as well, if we only allow him to work in us.

Entry Filed under: Will's Blog