by Sis. Abigail Bico
Reading for the day: Philippians 2:13
Have you ever felt like every day is just a routine, and you’re on autopilot? Especially during the cold, dark winter days, when everything seems ordinary—or even burdensome? I’ve been there too. It’s not a great feeling, but it’s a reality for many of us.
Some days, you are enjoying every moment of your career, your life, and even ministry, but other days, the routine feels draining, and you’re simply waiting to “clock out” or escape into a Christmas break. During these times, the question often arises: “Why am I doing this? Who am I doing this for? What is my purpose?”
And then, in the midst of it all, a shift happens—like a cold, sharp winter breeze. Suddenly, I come to my senses, and this wave of gratitude pulls me together. It hits me that everything I’m doing is because God has called me and is using me as His instrument. That realization humbles me.
The mentality of “I have to do this” shifts to “I get to do this,” because it’s an incredible privilege to be an instrument of God. As it says in Luke 17:10,
“We are unworthy servants; we have only done our duty.” When we see it as a privilege, it changes everything.
I often think about how Mary must have felt when she was chosen to bear the Son of God, the Savior of the world. I can’t imagine how overwhelming it must have been. But her response, when she accepted her role as God’s instrument, was so powerful: “I am the Lord’s servant.”
Sometimes, we need to pause and reflect. The work we do in the church, the ministries we serve in, and the resources we invest—whether time, energy, or finances—are not just tasks or items on our to-do list. They are ways we are being used by God as instruments. When all is said and done, we are here to serve and be an instrument.
Our Lord Jesus Christ who we celebrate this season was the prime example of servitude. When he took the form of a man and gave up his life to save us, he modelled true servanthood.
As you look back on this past year, consider how God may have used you. Whether it was serving in the church or helping with a ministry, those moments were opportunities for God to work through you. Even the simplest tasks or biggest projects are ways to be part of God’s growing and thriving work.
You may feel like you have nothing to offer, but if you’re willing to be used by Him, you’ll be amazed at what God can do.
Whenever you’re out caroling—thank the Lord, you get to do this.
Whenever you support the work of God—thank the Lord, you get to give.
Whenever you face a daunting task—thank the Lord, you get to be His instrument.
This Christmas, remember the privilege it is to be part of His purpose. And just like Mary, when we say, “I am the Lord’s servant,” we embrace the joy of being used by God.
As we march into the New Year, resolve to be a willing and consecrated instrument. May our satisfaction be found not in simply serving, but in serving God the right way.
As we march into the New Year, resolve to be a willing and consecrated instrument.
Reflection: How were you an instrument of God this year? In what areas of your life can you serve God more fully as his instrument?
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