Fictional though the character may be, he is a reminder that hiding our talents is akin to hiding our light under a bushel basket. St. Irenaeus phrased it well: The glory of God is man fully alive. We see the wondrous nature of God when we are bowled over by the capacity of humans to excel, to think and to create.
Yet many of us feel the need to apologize for being outstanding or we feel uncomfortable when being praised for having done something well. We rein in our talents out of a misguided sense of the holy or a fear of the judgment of others. The scriptures, however, tell us that we are "fearfully and wonderfully made," and we frustrate God's intent when we don't acknowledge our strengths and giftedness.
What do you do well? Whatever it is, there's a need for it or you wouldn't have the gift. Everyone has been given strengths to be used for the good of others. Sometimes, the world may not seem to be too receptive, but maybe that's our cue to work to change the attitude of the world. The sun doesn't ask permission to shine and we must be on the lookout for chances to serve and to honor and support others in living out what they do best, as well.
This is not the time to be timid about our own capabilities. We won't fall into pride if we realize that God gave them to us and that God gets the glory when the world is better off for our use of them. When we organize well or solve problems or develop the talents of others or bring harmony and restoration to a troubled situation, we attest to the truth found in 1Corinthians: There are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; and there are varieties of services, but the same Lord; and there are varieties of activities, but it is the same God who activates all of them in everyone. To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good.
The world could use a whole lot of common good, right now...
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