Faced with seemingly insurmountable problems and difficulties, people often minimalize their ability to influence their circumstances. A common question is, “What can I as one person do to make things better?” However, the real question they should be asking is, “What can I as one person do to make things better?” Yes, the words are the same, but the semantics are very different! Join me as we explore real-life examples of individuals who not only asked the pertinent question in a dark situation but bravely answered it. In the process, they demonstrate how to make the world better with God-given talents.
The “Cellar Violinist”
Apostle Paul reminds us, “Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good” (Romans 12:21, NIV). Overcome evil with good? How is this possible when hunkered down in a bomb shelter amid an aerial bombardment?
When Apostle Paul found himself under house arrest in Rome, he followed the Holy Spirit’s guidance and wrote what has come to be known as the Prison Epistles, which includes the letters of Philippians, Ephesians, Colossians, and Philemon. Although Paul was not in a bomb shelter, he was denied the freedom to come and go, just like those relegated underground in Ukraine. During this dark time, Paul faithfully asserts, God’s children “can do all things through him who gives…strength” (Philippians 4:13, NIV). All things? What about in the midst of bombing? Let us examine contemporary examples in Ukraine.
Escaping the barrage of missiles raining down upon the Ukranian city of Kharkiv, Vera Lytovchenko, along with her father and fellow neighbors, sheltered in their apartment building’s basement. Most people in this situation would probably huddle together, crying and praying (which is certainly understandable). Vera, however, sought a different solution. Now known as the “Cellar Violinist,” Vera, dressed in a formal gown, plays her violin. Instead of wallowing in fear and despair, Vera uses her God-given talent as a violinist to inspire her fellow countrymen, offering them light and hope in a dark situation.
Amelia
Acknowledging children, or God’s children, praising holds power against enemies, King David writes, “Through the praise of children and infants you have established a stronghold against your enemies, to silence the foe and the avenger” (Psalm 8:2, NIV). In addition, Scripture provides accounts of Jesus’s perspective on children. According to Matthew 21:16 (NIV), Jesus says, “…From the lips of children and infants you, Lord, have called forth your praise” (bold and italics added for emphasis).
Despite the value God’s Word places upon children, historically, society has minimized the role of children as one of being seen but not heard. Fortunately, the war in Ukraine brought to light the err of this sentiment. Amelia Anisovych, a 7-year-old Ukranian girl, sought shelter from the bombings in Kyiv with her parents and brother. While in the bomb shelter, Amelia struck up a conversation with a woman and shared her love of singing. Hearing this, the woman encouraged Amelia to sing for everyone in the bomb shelter. What did Amelia do? Well, she sang, of course! In fact, she chose the song “Let It Go” from the movie Frozen.
Despite the sound of bombs, Amelia made things better by using her God-given talent of singing. Babies quieted, and people calmed. Amelia’s talent brought a bright light into a dark place, providing hope for not only those in her bomb shelter but also the world! In fact, Adina Menzel, the performer who sang “Let It Go” in the movie Frozen, reacted to Amelia’s rendition of her song. Adina wrote, “We see you. We really, really see you” (see article link in previous paragraph). You see, little Amelia used her voice to call forth praise, just like Jesus described so many years ago!
Closing Thoughts and a Call to Action
As you have read, God calls people of all ages, including you dear friend, to use their talents, which come from Him, to make the world better. The Lord does not expect you to wait until an opportune time to employ your unique combination of skills and talents. Not at all. Instead, He wants you to do what you can with what you have (i.e., talents) where you are. Therefore, how will you answer the question, “What can I as one person do to make things better with my God-given talents?”
Related Posts:
Immeasurable Power Borne out of the Holy Spirit’s Nudging
Love Grows Blessings in the Midst of Heartbreak
Reflect Life-Affirming Christian Witness in the World
Special Acknowledgements:
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