A young female student tilts her head toward me, looks me in the eyes, and asks, “Who am I to stand before a congregation and preach, or to stand in a hospital room and pray for the sick or bereaved, or to sit with the confused and abused and speak words of hope, or to touch a broken and hurting sister on the arm, or to embrace and offer love to a lost or homeless child? I am only a mildly gifted person who deals with loads of insecurity, guilt and self-doubt. Who am I to act as though I bring a word, a touch, or a presence that will guide, heal, and give hope?”
I lean toward her and confess. “And who am I to teach a seminary class? Who am I to act as though I am an example of Christian service, witness or piety? Who am I to offer advice concerning marriage, ministry, missions, or life situations? The answer to your questions and mine is the Spirit.” (more…)