KEEPING THE FAITH | Don’t count yourself out — undiscovered doesn’t mean nonexistent
Among my many assignments and community activities, few compared to the amazing opportunity to serve as the team chaplain for the Youngstown State University football team under coach Eric Wolford. I was given the opportunity to pour into and encourage the young men both on and off the field.
Today, whenever I am called Coach Macklin, I am keenly drawn into the moments we shared, especially in our chapel gatherings. On one occasion I shared a message from 1 Samuel 16:6-13 — “Don’t count me out!” — which I offer as this week’s missive:
Samuel was given an assignment to go to Jesse’s home in Bethlehem and anoint one of his sons to be successor as king.
When they arrived, Samuel took one look at Eliab and thought, “Surely this is the Lord’s anointed!” But the Lord said to Samuel, “Don’t judge by his appearance or height, for I have rejected him.” The Lord doesn’t see things the way you see them. People judge by outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.
Then Jesse told his son Abinadab to step forward and walk in front of Samuel. But Samuel said, “This is not the one the Lord has chosen.” Next Jesse summoned Shimea, but Samuel said, “Neither is this the one the Lord has chosen.”
In the same way, all seven of Jesse’s sons were presented to Samuel. But Samuel said to Jesse, “The Lord has not chosen any of these.” Then Samuel asked, “Are these all the sons you have?” “There is still the youngest,” Jesse replied. “But he’s out in the fields watching the sheep and goats.” “Send for him at once,” Samuel said. “We will not sit down to eat until he arrives.”
So Jesse sent for David. He was dark and handsome, with beautiful eyes. And the Lord said, “This is the one; anoint him.” So as David stood there among his brothers, Samuel took the flask of olive oil he had brought and anointed David with the oil. And the Spirit of the Lord came powerfully upon David from that day on.
There are several lessons to be gleaned when others fail to see your value, worth and contribution. Someone once defined the word “potential” as a fancy French word meaning you haven’t done anything yet! However, David had both potential and promise. Notice those from within his home failed to see what God could do in David’s life. He had more fight and passion than all the other siblings, yet he was dismissed as a viable candidate.
Don’t despise humble beginnings: David didn’t have a glamorous lifestyle. It was very simple. In fact, it was literally messy as the sheep would leave their droppings. God can take your messy situations and clean it up in such a way that it becomes a blessing to you. Don’t let the stench of others’ opinions distract you from what God is doing in your life!
Keep on working: While his brothers were in the house parading before the prophet, David kept working and fulfilling his assignment to protect the sheep, which was important to their livelihood. Even though his father and siblings forgot about David, God did not! God knew the heart and passion of David, perhaps even more than David himself. While David was working, God was using the encounter as an opportunity to reveal and uncover the gifts of David.
Delayed is not denied: As the soon-to-be king, David did not immediately ascend to the throne. Even if you’re ready, it doesn’t mean the person or position is ready for you. David had to wait. However, it was the sum total of his life experiences during his youth, such as slaying a bear, a lion and giant, that prepared him for greater things. Dr. David Jeremiah observed: “David, when he saw Goliath, wasn’t afraid of being smaller than the giant, because he saw the giant as being smaller than God.”
Stop being held hostage by others’ opinions: Stop trying to fit in, especially when God called you to stand out! What others think about you is really none of your business. Their opinion of you likely comes from a place of their own insecurity. What really matters is how God sees you! You don’t have to react or respond to a false impression or reality of others. Ignore and dismiss your haters, who are simply confused admirers. Some folks are simply threatened by God’s plan for your life. They will even try to sabotage and deflect to mask their own shortcomings. Manipulation at its best is pronounced when they blame you for your reaction towards their disrespect.
Not everyone will see what God sees within you: That’s OK. Your dream was given to you. If someone else can’t see it for you, that is fine. It was given to you and not them. It’s your dream. Hold it. Nourish it. Cultivate it. All of these life moments David endured actually strengthened his faith in God while grooming him for leadership. We should always learn the life lessons from our own trials and tribulations, which should make us better, not bitter!
Finally, don’t count yourself out: You have greatness within you! Undiscovered does not mean nonexistent. Although the journey to the throne was long and arduous for David, he was ultimately able to reign for 40 years. What God has for you will be only for you. Some may appear to be threatened by your gift, talent or calling. At times, even one’s most sincere and noble efforts will be seen as competition instead of a complement by others. That is not your problem. Whatever you are called to do, execute it with a spirit of excellence while keeping the faith in God and yourself.
I wish continued success to the YSU football program. I am also elated that my friend and brother, Bob Hannon, is once again calling plays as “The Voice” for the Penguins. Bob’s recovery is a testament of God’s grace and faithfulness. I am grateful and celebrate with Bob for his continued healing.
It Is Well With Their Soul
The Mahoning Valley has recently lost two amazing faith leaders: Rev. Dr. Gerald Morgan and Sister Mildred Ruffing.
We extend condolences to Dr. Vivian Faye Morgan, her family and Hoyt Street Flourishing Ministries Church of God in Christ in the passing of Dr. Morgan. In addition to serving as pastor, Dr. Morgan was also the founder of the Northeastern College of Theology. As a community advocate, he was the past president of the Trumbull branch of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People. He was also an active member of the Warren Trumbull County Ministerial Alliance and established the Gerald L. Morgan Scholarship foundation.
He meets the definition of a megachurch pastor for his tremendous passion, generous heart and deep integrity for those he served. He has been described by the community as very hospitable, a brilliant visionary, a passionate leader and a father to many. He always stood as a picture of strong leadership; a builder and educator who was humble, determined and fully committed to the call. He was down to earth, funny and personable, yet carried himself in ministry with dignity and grace.
Sister Mildred, formerly Sister M. Jacinta, of Humility of Mary, completed her earthly journey and entered eternal life. She was respected as a teacher and religious educator during her 64 years of active ministry, including 29 years at St. Luke Parish in Boardman.
She taught at St. Stephen in Niles and St. Paul in Salem. She also served as director of religious education at St. Edward Elementary in Youngstown and as religion coordinator for the Catholic Diocese of Youngstown. Sister Mildred was an avid gardener who contributed to the beauty of many landscapes with her flower and vegetable gardens. Sister Mildred is survived by her sisters in the Humility of Mary congregation; her sister, Dorothy Wagener; and her brothers, Rev. Norman Ruffing and Norbert Ruffing.
Family Matters
Looking for some great family events today?
Highway Tabernacle, 3000 S. Raccoon Road, is sponsoring Hometown Sunday Under the Tent. This is a free communitywide family event today. Bring your friends for an outdoor service, lunch, multiple giveaways, kids activities and more.
Consider participating in Silly Science Sunday starting at 11 a.m. in the heart of downtown Youngstown. OH WOW! The Roger & Gloria Jones Children’s Center for Science & Technology will host its annual event to promote science and technology appreciation for kids of all ages. Marvin Logan, the executive director, and his team have planned another exciting annual street fair. There will be plenty of silliness, fun, food and, above all, SCIENCE!
We Remember
In loving memory of Victoria Allen, there will be a community gathering from 5 to 7 p.m. Wednesday to honor the life and legacy of this beloved community advocate. The gathering will take place at the corner of East Ravenwood and Southern Boulevard to offer prayers for peace. If ever a title was bestowed, it would be “Ms. Youngstown” for Vicki’s stalwart community impact and tireless energy to bless our community. May her memory remain eternal.
Baby Shower
Organizacion Civica y Cultural Hispana Americana Inc., 3660 Shirley Road, Youngstown, will present a Community Baby Shower from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Wednesday. It will feature educational displays, raffles, snacks and giveaways. Call 330-781-1808 to register.
Get into the ‘Sister Act’
The Youngstown Playhouse will present on its main stage “Sister Act,” based on the Touchstone Pictures Motion Picture. The production is directed by Emma Wason and will run Friday through Oct. 2. Let’s act up and laugh at the antics of a beloved classic. You will not want to miss this show-stopping performance.
After witnessing a murder, Deloris Van Cartier is placed in witness protection and is sent to a convent disguised as Sister Mary Clarence. She faces hardships with having to follow Mother Superior’s orders and adjusting to her new lifestyle. She uses her singing and dancing talent to strengthen the convent and community, only to get her cover blown. This comedy stage play is powered by friendship, gospel music and an inspiring storyline and features some of the area’s most familiar community theater talents.
