Acts 6:1–7
There’s a quiet moment of grace in this week’s scripture from Acts – a moment that could easily be missed.
The early church is growing. But with growth comes tension. A complaint arises: some widows, those most vulnerable, are being overlooked in the daily food distribution. And instead of ignoring it or brushing it aside, the community listens. They act. The apostles invite others into leadership – seven people chosen to help make sure no one is left out.
What strikes me is how practical this call is. There’s no vision from heaven, no booming voice. Just a need, and a faithful response.
And that makes me wonder: Where might God be calling us to serve right now? Not someday. Not once we feel fully prepared. But now.
It’s easy to assume the call to serve always looks big – leading a group, starting a new ministry, making a huge commitment. But sometimes, it’s about stepping into the needs right in front of us. Maybe there’s a role we’ve hesitated to take on, not because we’re unqualified, but because we’ve forgotten what we’re capable of.
So let me offer a second question: What gifts might you be overlooking? Maybe you’re a good listener. Maybe you’re patient. Maybe you bring calm to chaotic moments, or kindness where it’s needed most. These gifts matter. And the church – this community we’re part of – needs them.
The beauty of Acts 6 is that everyone has a role to play. The apostles continue to preach and pray. The newly appointed leaders care for the community in practical ways. And because each person is faithful to their call, the message of God’s love spreads even further.
So this week, I invite you to sit with these questions:
- Where is God calling you to serve?
- What gifts might be waiting in you to be offered?
And then – when the time feels right – take that step. Even a small one. Because God often does the most remarkable things through the everyday faithfulness of people who simply say “yes.”
Let’s pray:
God of grace and calling,you see the needs around us even when we don’t. Open our eyes to the quiet invitations to serve, and give us the courage to say yes. Help us trust the gifts you’ve placed within us,and use them for the good of others. May our small acts of faith become part of your larger work in the world. Amen.
