Morning Devotional

February 4, 2004

"Unique" 

by Don Emmitte

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Then God said, "Let us make people in our image, to be like ourselves. They will be masters over all life--the fish in the sea, the birds in the sky, and all the livestock, wild animals, and small animals." So God created people in his own image; God patterned them after himself; male and female he created them. (Genesis 1:26-27 NLT).

Yesterday my twin grandchildren, Faith and Logan, had their second round of shots and checkup from their pediatrician. They were pronounced healthy and well! It was interesting to hear the story of how the appointment went. I was told they reacted very differently to the various things that the doctor did. When they were weighed, Faith screamed and Logan lolled contentedly. Now, that is not because Logan is a “better” baby. In fact, he has been a little more difficult to take care of because of his reflux and allergies. They just have different personalities. They are unique, just as all of us are unique.

There is a story told of a man who died and met Saint Peter at the pearly gates. Realizing Saint Peter was a wise and knowledgeable person, he said, "Saint Peter, I have been interested in military history for many years. Tell me who was the greatest general of all times?" Saint Peter quickly responded, "Oh, that's a simple question. It is that man right over there," as he pointed nearby. The man said, "You must be mistaken, Saint Peter. I knew that man on earth. He was just a common laborer." "That's right, my friend," replied Saint Peter. "But he would have been the greatest general of all time, if he had been a general."

Our reading this morning comes from the very beginning of time. It is the heart of God’s design in Creation. He never intended to create people with identical characteristics and gifts. We are all created unique with abilities designed to best fulfill a specific purpose. That purpose is intended to bring us happiness and joy. I wonder if you have found that purpose? If so, are you pursuing it with your whole heart? You were created with natural abilities and an internal compass that guides you toward a particular focus for your life. That's only the starting point; the next step is yours. You have an obligation to expand that potential to its ultimate destiny. Michelangelo said, "It is only well with me when I have a chisel in my hand." Discover what you are supposed to do and do it!

Thomas Carlyle said, “A man without a purpose is like a ship without a rudder—a waif, a nothing, a no man. Have a purpose in life, and, having it, throw such strength of mind and muscle into your work as God has given you.” Whatever it is God has given you to be, do it with your whole heart. Whatever God has given you to be with, use it with your whole heart. You are unique and therefore wonderful!