I turned 40 earlier this month. I was overwhelmed by all the gifts and cards and kind words I received! There is probably material for several blog posts in all the blessings I received during the past month. But two gifts in particular are on my mind today.

I have served under the leadership of 2 very special couples during my time on this island, and it is nearing time for me to establish a new base of operation for the ministry in a different city. I believe eventually there will be a team in Derry/Londonderry, but for now, I will be the only staff person with my organization in that city. (In one way, this seems completely daunting. On the other hand, I’m grateful I’m not carrying responsibility for a team as I try to figure out life in this new city and season.)

What does this have to do with birthday gifts? Well, the gifts in question were given to me by these two couples I’ve been privileged to serve under and learn from. One was a jigsaw puzzle – “Diamond in the rough” – which includes a magnifying glass to search for the diamond in the completed picture of coal. The other, a case which provides a place to work on a puzzle and then put it away while keeping the pieces in place until the next time you’re ready to work on it.

As I was praying last weekend about the coming move, I felt God say that while not planned by the givers, these gifts were no accident. I sensed He was saying that my previous experiences (throughout life, but particularly in Sligo and Belfast) and my leaders and mentors have given me all of the pieces and space and tools needed to build something new. And not just to build something, but to find the treasure in it and then show that to others.

Whatever is built during this next season of establishing a new location and eventually a team for ministry there, it will have incredible value – even if it appears at times to be a pile of worthless rocks. I am so encouraged to know that God has given me everything that’s needed to build and to search for the treasure of what He wants to do through me in Derry. I am living proof that God doesn’t call the qualified; He qualifies the called.

What is He calling you to do? Does it feel like more than you’re capable of accomplishing? If it feels bigger than you can handle, it’s probably just about right for what He is asking. 🙂 Whatever He is asking of you, trust He’ll give you all the tools and space you need to do it (with His help, of course!)

I’d love to hear what He’s saying to you in the comments…