"Gather the pieces that are left over. Let nothing be wasted," (John 6:12b NIV)

What a title! Perhaps it makes you think of food set aside when enough has been
consumed to satisfy one's hunger. Some family pets get leftover scraps of food
as a treat. Then there are those who work with fabric. Scraps remain when the
main pattern is cut out. Some people are resourceful. Leftover food can create
another meal. Fabric scraps can be incorporated into another design such as a
quilt or an accessory.

How resourceful are those of us with chronic physical challenges? I have known
times I felt like a "leftover" sitting on the sidelines unable to partake in the
whole meal of life. I remember when the challenges in my body became too intense
for me to continue my teaching career. I hoped I might visit my school on
occasion and volunteer. That involvement was not possible. My former colleagues,
though caring about me. remained a part of a world where I no longer belonged.
Where did I belong? I had so much inside of me to give but my illness seemed to
curtail this happening. Was the meal over? What next?

In this Scripture passage Jesus had just miraculously fed 5000 with five loaves
and two fishes and there were leftovers. He saw these pieces as still useful.

I've come to believe that each of us has an abundance of gifts within us that
God can use. In spite of what we think are limitations, He does not see us as
"leftovers" but as his dear children. For myself, I had to recognize that if I
held on to seeing only the former ways I used my gifts, I missed a door opening
where God could use me in new ways. God will feed us for any task we are to do.
We can become bread for others in ways that may even surprise us.

Prayer: Lord, thank You that You give gifts in abundance so that each child of
yours has food to give. Help me see with new eyes that, when placed in your
hands "leftovers" can be used as a full meal, nothing wasted. Amen.

About the Author: Lynn Severance is a retired elementary classroom teacher. She
lives in Lynnwood, Washington. She writes to encourage others as God has
encouraged her during 26 years of living with daily physical challenges.