Auditioning for a Shakespeare play is an adventure—you never know what role you might receive. From a pool of college students a director might cast human roles of all ages plus monsters, ghosts, and fantastic creatures of all kinds. Perhaps you hoped to play Fairy Queen Titania, but find yourself cast as “fairy number two.” Trying not to sound disappointed, you trot out the old cliché:
“Oh, well! There are no small parts, only small actors!”
There are no small parts in God’s Kingdom. Some will be rich, famous, powerful, or beautiful. Others will work in a heroic field. But most of us will live “ordinary” lives. Most Americans live in a suburb, drive a modest car, work a regular job, and raise two children. But God, our Casting Director, is sovereign—these are HIS decisions. We serve where He places us. And “Your Father, who sees what is done in secret, rewards you” Matthew 6:4.
Consider David’s men. Which would you be?
“Joab son of Zeruiah was over the army. Jehoshaphat … was court historian. Zadok … and Ahimelech … were priests. Shavsha was court secretary. Benaiah … was over the Cherethites and the Pelethites, and David’s sons were the chief officials at the king’s side” 1 Chronicles 18:15-17.
If I were auditioning for a role in this play, General Joab would be my choice. But God made me a Jehoshaphat, a historian—so much so that I have actually worn the title “historian.” People know me as the guy that will write down all the details of who said what and what evidence they offered, etc. God gave me both the gifts and the interest to record events and conversations.
I could spend my life hoping to be Joab. But if God equipped me to be Jehoshaphat, then the sooner I adjust to His will the happier I will be.
God, help us develop and enjoy the gifts and the roles you have chosen for us. Remind us that there are no small parts in Your Kingdom. Thank You for equipping us and using us.
ΑΩ
Household Words: 