Inspired by Daniel 10:2-19
“I, Daniel, alone saw the vision; the people who were with me did not see the vision, though a great trembling fell upon them, and they fled and hid themselves.” Daniel 10:7
We are the center of our own lives; it is virtually impossible for it to be otherwise. Even the most humble and selfless of us must first tend to our own needs for food, shelter, and clothing before we can see to the needs of others. And most of us tend to many more of our own wants and needs than just those simple basics before we turn to others.
Given that so much of our lives are lived with us at the center, it is difficult for us to remember that not everything in the world revolves around us. Especially God. God works in many and various ways, through many and various people, and any given individual is not entitled to every vision, revelation, insight, or sign that God provides. There were others with Daniel when he received his vision, and they were able to sense that something was going on, but for them it was nothing more than a fear deep enough to compel them to run and hide. The vision was for Daniel, and for Daniel alone. It came to him because of who he was and what he had done, and what he would be able to do with the information that vision provided. Daniel was unique, and the vision sent to him by God could only be of value to him.
We are each important to God’s plan of salvation for the world; we each have a role to play. But we each have a different role. Rather than feeling slighted or jealous because God chooses to use someone else in a particular way, remain humble, and seek to discern how God is using you. You also are unique, and can do things for the kingdom of God that no one else is capable of doing.
Let us pray. Holy Lord, you’ve blessed each of us with a particular mix of gifts, abilities, experiences, and perspectives. Open our hearts and our minds to your insights, that we may use what you have given us to further your work in the world. Through Christ our Lord, Amen.
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