Since I was old enough to remember, I watched The Little Drummer Boy every Christmas. I shared it with my children and I hope to one day share it with my grandchildren. Growing up, the only things about Jesus I was exposed to was the annual watching of this movie, and the display of a gold painted corn husk nativity set placed in the folds of a purple velvet cloth. Simple, yet what a huge impact they left on my heart. Here are the basic lyrics from the song, minus all drum sounds:
“Come they told me
A new born king to see
Our finest gifts we bring
To lay before the king
So to honor him
When we come
Little baby
I am a poor boy too
I have no gift to bring
That’s fit to give our king
Shall I play for you
Mary nodded
The ox and lamb kept time
I played my drum for him
I played my best for him
Then he smiled at me
Me and my drum
Come they told me
A new born king to see.”
I am humbled by the realization that the talents of so many brought this movie into the homes of families all across America for decades, allowing the message of Christ to be told and heard by millions every Christmas season. The lyrics of the song ring loudly in their actions. What a challenge they have set forth for us all. I am in awe of the talented hands that made the nativity that I affectionately played dolls with, and daily rocked the little baby Jesus before laying him back in the manger. I was blessed to experience the products of such talents. They gave their best and now I am challenged to do the same. There is no excuse to withhold sharing our talents. When I give my best through my talents, it is a naturally easy expression of worship. Do you have a talent that you keep a secret or tucked away, pulling it out upon occasion for quick use? I have learned that you miss out on the blessing of giving and receiving when you hold back your gifts. The Lord gave you the treasures you have when He created you. He created you with talents, gifts and abilities that were meant to move humanity forward. Do you share them? Be a humble and willing vessel for the Lord, and watch Him work through your talents and gifting to light up the world!
It is my prayer that you will love mightily as you give generously with your talents. Will you tell the Lord in this coming new year that you are available and ready to give your best to Him?
Joyfully Healing from the Inside Out,
