Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet.  I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you.  Very truly I tell you, no servant is greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him.  Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them (John 13:14-17).

Some spiritual gifts are easy to notice. Teaching. Leading. Speaking. But some of the most powerful gifts feel ordinary. A listening ear. A generous heart. Hospitality. Practical help. These may not draw attention, but in the hands of the Spirit, ordinary acts of love can have an extraordinary impact.

We often overlook these gifts because they feel natural. What comes easily, we assume, is not significant. But what feels ordinary may be the very way God has wired us to serve others.

In John 13:12–15, Jesus kneels to wash His disciples’ feet. It was dirty, lowly work. Yet the One with all authority chose to serve.

He does not use spiritual gift language. He says, “I have given you an example that you should do as I have done for you.” He shows us what humble service looks like. Jesus is our ultimate example, but he often teaches us how to live that out through the everyday people around us.

I think of Sherry, who leads my Bible study. I tend to focus too much on getting things done, but she focuses more on people. Because of that, our group is deeply connected. Watching her reminds me that serving people is the work. 

Through the years, I’ve watched church members give generously.  I used to hold tightly to my money. But seeing their example changed my heart. Their generosity showed me how God can use something as ordinary as giving to do something extraordinary. 

I think of Pastor Alex, who has been a strong example to me at church. He reaches out, meets with people, checks in, counsels, and listens. He cares about what is going on in their lives. Watching him has shown me that spiritual gifts are often expressed through intentional, relational care.

I also think of Ernie, my small group leader. He remembers people, asks about their lives, prays for them, and he and his wife open their home. He has invested in my kids, taking an interest in their lives. His example reminds me that what seems ordinary is often how God works through hospitality and encouragement.

Sometimes these gifts require time and skill. I once mentioned that I didn’t know how to install a porch light, and someone from my small group spent an hour helping me. It was an example of using the gift of service to meet a practical need.

So do not overlook what seems small. The gifts that feel ordinary may be the very ways God reveals His extraordinary love.

On Chatham Serve Sunday, look for one opportunity to use your time, skills, or care to meet a real need.