Availability over ability

The spring of my freshman year of college, I received the most unexpected call of my life.

I’d spent the semester reading through the Bible, from cover to cover, for the first time. I wish I could go back and find the exact passage that pricked my heart, but all I remember is that I felt a great compelling to step out of my comfort zone and serve God, so I prayed for an opportunity.

The next day the land line (yes, it was that long ago) rang while I was home by myself. A stranger on the other end of the phone informed me that he had received my name and was calling to see if I’d be interested in spending my summer ministering inside prisons. And if that little assignment wasn’t wild enough, the actually ministering would be done through music.

That’s right, if I agreed to join this man’s ministry, I’d spend all summer not only sharing the gospel behind bars, but doing it through song. Never, in a million years, had I envisioned myself participating in anything of the sorts, and yet it was obvious that this was the answer to my prayer.

At the first group meeting, I quickly realized I was the least qualified member. Sure, I could sing on pitch and carry the melody well, but the others weren’t just able to sing, their voices were incredible. They majored in music, wrote songs, played all sorts of instruments, and could hear harmonies my ears couldn’t detect no matter how hard I tried.

I couldn’t help but wonder why God would choose to use me. Frankly, there were countless others who would’ve been a better fit. And yet, as I look back on that season of life, I’ve come to realize that God is able to accomplish far more through our availability than our perceived ability.

By the end of that summer, I had visited close to thirty prisons. Every single performance was packed. The message of God’s love was relayed not just behind bars but also inside of supporting churches, too. Traveling hundreds of miles in an old van, and sleeping on church floors or in the homes of generous congregants, proved to be anything but glamorous, and yet the entire experience was nothing short of miraculous.

Don’t count yourself out, my friend. Whether you are qualified or not, God’s power remains unhindered. Because from Him, and through Him, and to Him are all things. He can accomplish whatever He wills, however He wants. And yet, He graciously extends us life transforming opportunities to join in alongside the good work He is doing.

So participate. Be willing and available. I promise you won’t regret answering whatever call He sends your way. It may be unexpected, but it will certainly be worthwhile.