Numbers 1:47-50 “The Levites, however, were not numbered among them by their fathers’ tribe. For the LORD had spoken to Moses, saying, “Only the tribe of Levi you shall not number, nor shall you take their census among the sons of Israel. “But you shall appoint the Levites over the tabernacle of the testimony, and over all its furnishings and over all that belongs to it. They shall carry the tabernacle and all its furnishings, and they shall take care of it; they shall also camp around the tabernacle.” Moses gives the results of the census. All of Israel was numbered except the tribe of Levi. The census was done for military preparedness. The Levites weren’t to be part of the fighting force. They were dedicated to serving The Lord. This makes me think of our purpose. 1 Corinthians 12:6,7 speaks of the diversity of gifts and how they are given for the benefit of everyone. The nation of Israel needed protection. All those that could be spared for service were. Present day Israel has a draft. All Israeli men (maybe women) spend a given period of time for their country. I think it’s military experience, but the service opportunities may be more diverse. This helps the nation. We also are part of something bigger. Our country doesn’t have a draft, but we are obligated to be good citizens. We are part of the church. We are to use our talents to serve it. Our own gifts are very diverse. Some have gifts of service, others have gifts of compassion, some are outgoing and make people feel welcome, some have administrative gifts, and so on. God can use what we bring Him. Pastor Chuck talked about being available. God isn’t looking for talented people, He wants available people. He is God and can work around the talent. He gave the abilities to people in the first place. He can make anyone able. Putting ourselves into God’s hands can be scary. We often think of extreme things and fear that’s what He’ll ask of us. These are normal fears, but they demonstrate a limited understanding of God. He loves us. He won’t embarrass us. David said in psalms, “Ye let none that wait on Thee be ashamed.” He will challenge us, but not shame us. Lord, thank You that You want to use us. Help us to be available. Help us to know You better. Thus, not be afraid.