| Uniquely You - article by Joel Hempel Many of you reading this are familiar with the Bible references that compare the church and its members to the Body of Christ (see Romans 12:3-8 and 1 Corinthians 12:12-31. As you see in these passages, every Christian in Christ’s Body (the church) is uniquely made, each having a role to play in the life and work of the church, each being special in God’s eyes, each distinctively gifted to excel in their called vocations. For most of my life as a Christian and in my calling as a minister, I have thought of our spiritual individuality as primarily composed of the specific blessings Scripture calls the gifts of grace (see Rom. 12:6-8; 1 Cor. 12:27-28; Eph. 4:11-12; 1 Peter 4:10-11). All of us have no less than one of these gifts. However, in my recent reading, I have been challenged to think more broadly about what makes us individually special. For example, consider the differences in our personalities. Some are more outgoing; others are inclined toward introversion. Some are more organized and structured, others more flexible and adaptive. Some are excellent with numbers, but no one would want me filing their taxes. There are all kinds of personality theories and assessment tools. I have found many helpful in understanding myself, my loved ones, and others I have served in ministry. Some people don’t want to be “boxed in” or “labeled” by theories or personality tests. That, of course, is their prerogative. But from my perspective, if we better understand ourselves, we can better determine how God wants to work through us and intentionally develop those gifts. According to the Myers-Briggs Indicator, I am what they call an ISFJ. Simply translated, I am an introvert who pays attention to details, appreciates feelings (mine and yours), and values structure. But that is only one way of understanding who I am. Over the years, I have found spiritual assessment tools helpful for life and ministry. For example, there is an assessment tool called the Ignatian Spirituality Assessment “House of God.” I included it in my book. The deacons are currently studying it. I invite you to borrow the book (Spiritual Care Basics and Beyond) from the church library and invest time reading and reflecting on Chapter Two. It may lead you to understand better what God is calling you to do. One might think understanding ourselves should come naturally and easily. Not so! We are a product of many influences: DNA, family of origin, significant relationships, education, and meaningful experiences. Sadly, not all those influences have been positive. We live in a fallen world, and only sinful people have impacted our lives - however hard they tried to be loving toward us. Thankfully and especially, the saving gospel of Jesus Christ is at work within us. Thus, our most meaningful identity is Redeemed Sinner, Forgiven Saint, Child of God, Servant of Christ, Called and Sent One, Resident of Heaven! Pick one or all of those titles. They are all you! | 
