What does it mean to surrender ourselves unconditionally to God? What does it mean to truly be used in his service? We all say that we want to be used in such a way but few of us can really describe the process. Perhaps an illustration can be drawn from the world of music:
Two violinists get up to perform. The first is a master technician who performs with such dexterity that the audience is astounded. The second has less technical skill but plays with such feeling that the audience can identify with her emotion and the music itself. Which would you say is the better performer? Obviously the one with whom the audience was able to identify.
The same can be said of one’s usefulness in God’s kingdom. Perfection is not the key; simple surrender to God is. One may not feel like he gives the best performance but it hardly matters. Those who are watching will appreciate the simple sincerity and love for God that exudes from a disciple who is truly in love with his Lord. They will appreciate the honesty that allows them to feel a fellow human’s struggle. They will understand the grace that God gives when someone surrenders to his design.
Lord, help me to be a vessel surrendered to your purpose and plans for my life. I don’t have to be perfect. I would rather play the music with all my heart. It may lead someone to you!
Blessings,
Sullivan Jones
Adapted from Invitation to A Journey by M. Robert Mulholland Jr.