Calling: Gifts

By: Donna Lawson

 “Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others.”– 1 Peter 4:10

Growing up Black in a Christian family, we faced many challenges: racial prejudice, financial struggles, unemployment, lack of affordable housing, poor education, and limited access to healthcare. My parents had minimal financial resources, and whatever they could provide for us came with great sacrifice. Often, they had to "rob Peter to pay Paul," meaning they would take money from one bill to cover another, hoping they could gather enough to pay the original bill before the due date. Yet, on Christmas morning in 1968, my parents gave me and my brothers gifts. I received three gifts: a box of chalk, a reversible chalkboard, and a Scofield Study Bible.

Every gift we receive is meant to be shared with the world.

Years after that Christmas, the box of chalk, the reversible chalkboard, and the Scofield Bible became catalysts in my life. I was the first in my family to graduate from high school and went on to become a first-generation college graduate. I earned a four-year degree and two advanced degrees in School Leadership and Divinity. With 30 years of service in public education, I have participated in numerous events exploring the intersection of religion and education, as well as the ongoing struggle for freedom within twentieth-century African American communities—sharing my story along the way. These experiences not only transformed my social and financial trajectory but also influenced the lives of my children, my community, and my church.

What gifts have you received?

How can you share your gifts with others this week?