“We are called to be manna makers. Just as Jesus has come to give us life by his presence, we can be an extension of him to others. Since God has come to dwell among us, we get the benefit of letting his love and light flow out of us in hopes that others might taste and see his goodness too. He leads us when we draw near.”- Meredith McDaniel
“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.”- 1 Peter 4:10 (NIV)
The Epilogue (“Manna Makers”) of In Want + Plenty completes Meredith’s first book. There Meredith McDaniel underscores that we see God’s hand when we search for manna in our life. Whether we’re in want or plenty. And when we live out the truth that we have all we need in Christ, we’re free to love others. As a result, loving the people God places in our path shifts from a command to the greatest gift.
However, our culture of entitlement preaches self-sufficiency. Therefore, we see anyone in need – including ourselves – as weak. Hence, our default mind-set expects everyone to buck up. But Jesus calls us to live in direct opposition to this mind-set. He gently whispers to us – be manna makers.
Since God made us all differently,we receive gifts from Him that uniquely express our calling. This variety, Meredith stresses, makes our world vibrant and full of adventure. So, regardless of what form love takes for us, we all get to love. Meredith explains:
“No matter what, God has given you the ability to shed some light in the dark places — because if he has a grip on your life, he is determined to use you and the way you move in the world to bring him glory. Jesus charges us with this in Matthew 5:16, where he says, ‘Let your light shine before others, so they may see you good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven’ “(ESV).
Today’s question: How do you help others to fulfill their calling from Jesus as manna makers? Please share.
Tomorrow’s blog: the annotated bibliography of In Want + Plenty
