Sometimes I feel like I have a big sign on my forehead that reads, "USE ME!" Use me for my house. Use me for my money. Use me for my food. You use me for a ride. Use me to get you out of trouble. Use me to get get into a middle school basketball game because you need an adult... ok now I'm getting too specific, but you get the point. It can get very frustrating at times when you feel like people are constantly taking advantage of you and not appreciating it one bit. Not only are they not appreciating it, but they are expecting more!
Ali and I have often found ourselves sitting at home after a long day with the kids asking each other this question, "Did you feel used today?" We both already know the answer so we don't have to say anything. We are probably too tired to answer anyhow (kids really take it out of you :) It is ok that we feel like this? Is is ok that we go out of our way for these kids and would do almost ANYTHING for their well-being (safety, shelter, food, comfort, encouragement, love, support, and a glimpse of Jesus)? No, they don't know that. They do know that we are there for them and that means they can use us. OK, so this may seem like I am frustrated and I am to some extent. However, I am not complaining... because I see the deeper issues as to why these kids act like that. They don't know any better and we can't teach them that the first time we meet them. They have so many more deeper issues that need to be dealt with before we are constantly disciplining on how unthankful they are at times. We also realize that we may have to be "used" before we can gain the trust needed and really get into the life of another. Ali and I think it is worth it.
I can't imagine how many times Jesus felt used. His disciples used Him. The crowds He preached to used Him. WE used Him... to die for US! Jesus knew He was getting used all along, but still let it happen. He had a greater purpose in mind. He had reasons to let it happen. I can only imagine that Jesus knew that letting others use Him would ultimately bring them closer to the power and greatness of Jesus and bring glory to His Father in Heaven.
If being "used" is what it takes to bring the kids and people we around to an authentic relationship and love for Jesus Christ... by all means
USE US! . Use our money, time, and energy. Please, use us.
-Kory