Maximum Impact: We All Can Make A Difference

Every kid is born with a gift. Even the ones that society can reject because of a disability. One of my best friends has Down syndrome, and even though he is verbally challenged and has a limited ability to do things he has such great character and determination, something I personally lack.

I’ve grown up playing sports all my life: baseball, basketball, football, track and field. P.E. was my favorite subject because we got to go out and play sports. I was no superstar athlete, I only did decently well at whatever I tried, but because things came to me easily I never developed the character to persevere through defeat and failure. Though my friend was lacking in physical ability he made up for it with determination and a never-quit attitude.

Something I love about God is the fact that he makes us all individually different and special. Before we were born, he already picked out a destiny for each of us that is greater than anything you or I could image. And by making us each unique he has set us up for that specific destiny perfectly.

Some people brought even their babies to Jesus so he could touch them. When the followers saw this, they told them to stop. But Jesus called for the children, saying, “Let the little children come to me. Don’t stop them, because the kingdom of God belongs to people who are like these children.

Luke 18:15-16 (NCV)

Even when, to the outside viewer, someone with disabilities is lacking and unable to accomplish what a typical person can, they still have those specific talents and characteristics that were designed by God to reach that specific destiny. Those with disabilities can make an impact, just like those without.

• How can you help the people in your life reach their maximum potential?
• Write down 5 talents, abilities or characteristics you know you’ve received from God. Do the same for your friends and share with them.