Many people don't know this, but I enjoy singing in church choirs. I am a baritone - which means I can sing either tenor or baritone; however, mostly find myself singing tenor because the parts are more interesting and challenging. And on occasion, I even sing in ensembles or even solo.
The last time that I sang a solo was two years ago at a funeral. The funeral was for a good friend of mine that actually took his own life and left a wife and children behind. It was (and still is) an incredible loss for all of his, because he was such a wonderful person. I was asked to sing one of his favorite songs ... "A Poor Wayfaring Man of Grief". It is a natural "tear jerker" in its own right; add a funeral to the mix and you're got yourself a tough assignment. And it was. As much as I tried, I couldn't get through it without breaking down ... badly! When I finally finished, I was sobbed uncontrolably in my wife's arms.
I decided to take a break. A few weeks ago, I was asked to sing another solo. I almost said no; but I told the choir director that I'd think about it. A few days later, I accepted; I really didn't have a good reason to say "no", but all the same I was reluctant. Besides, I never want to disappoint anybody.
So tonight, I sang my first solo in two years. The event was a success, and so was my solo. I felt really great to sing again, and many people expressed their appreciation. I felt good about my decision to sing. Seeing the joy on people's faces reminded me that the talents that God gives us are meant to be shared. God gives us talents to bless our lives and the lives of others; and if I had refused this solo, none of us would have blessed tonight.
I am reminded of the Parable of the Talents; those that use their talents or skills to gain more (or to bless others) will be found in good favor with God. Those that hide them will lose them and will not be in good favor with God. If you have talents or skills that aren't being shared, I strongly urge you to reconsider. I know that as we do so, blessings will come to us and those around us that we would not be able to enjoy otherwise. It may even require a sacrifice on our part; but then again, anything that's worth while always does.