I've learned over the years how to become an extroverted-introvert in an extrovert-dominated world.
(my own little corner in my own little world)
I must be a fairly good actress, because most people are shocked to discover that solitude matters a great deal to me (probably more than it should).
Recently, I found myself "seated" at a table eating a meal with a group of women who all knew one another, and with whom I knew not a soul.
There were, in fact, a total of four in a room of 150+ that I did know.
I could have easily gone and sat with those four.
I pulled up my big-girl-panties and sat down.
The conversation began to take off.
I learned A LOT about this group of gals.
They were extraordinary.
Gifted.
Skilled.
Purposed in places I couldn't imagine myself ever being qualified to work.
Not only serving in the workplace, but they out-did themselves on the Home-front, the Church-front, the Community-front.
Impressive!
As they shared their stories, I found myself "shrinking" in that seat.
If it's possible for a human to shrink, I managed.
An image crossed my mind from the movie, "Honey, I Shrunk the Kids."
In a split second, I thought to myself, "Seriously, it's better that I never get to know who is in the groups of women where I go to speak. After all, most of them are more qualified than I am to do what I'm here to do."
The more humorous part of this little story is that I drove a long way to speak on what it looks like to be "seated in the heavenlies with Jesus."
"I want you to know," she began, "what you are sharing this weekend is touching me deeply. I am always comparing myself to others at work, at church, in my community, and as a mom. In my mind, I always come up short. I am not enough. I needed the reminder that when I am 'seated with Christ' my identity is secure. Thank you!"
How is it possible that in the very midst of what we are purposed to do, the enemy can so spontaneously distract?
I'd have gotten there, eventually.
But, the Lord used this table full of dear, gracious women to get me back to my proper seat more rapidly.
When we are seated at the King-Table, there is no need for comparison.
In that place, He has a unique purpose designed specifically for each one of us.
And, He has equipped us for the purpose to which He has called us.
For other times, and other places, someone else may be His pick.
At the King-Table, there is no need for self-evaluation.
There is no need for self-consciousness.
Self-absorption.
Self-judgment.
Self-ANYTHING.
There is no need for any of this...because the King, with whom we are seated, has promised an abundant life for each of us (John 10:10).
There is no need for any of this...because the King, has unified us with a Kingdom mindset.
I don't completely understand it; I just know this understanding of where I'm seated transforms me and gives me a renewed sense of confidence.
This is timely.
In one week, I board another plane, for another retreat, to speak to another group of women who could all be standing in my place doing exactly what I'll be doing.
For this particular time and place, the Lord looked across the King-Table, pointed His finger at me, and said, "I choose you."
If I'm chosen, I'm equipped.
And, this little introvert will be transformed into the extrovert she needs to be for this coming season.
#takeyourseat
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