Weakness

Is it always so bad that I am weak?

When I was serving at Lincoln Havelock UMC, one of the greatest challenges—and joys—was delivering the weekly Children’s Message. With just a few minutes to engage young hearts, I often leaned on object lessons to bring the Gospel alive.

One Sunday, about two years ago, I had a brilliant idea (at least I thought so!). I brought my blender and a mix of fresh fruits into the sanctuary to illustrate this truth:

“Though we are all different, we are one in Christ—united in the love of God.”

The plan? Blend the fruits into a smoothie, share it with the children, and help them see that just as the flavors blend into something beautiful, so too does the Body of Christ—bringing transformation to families, communities, schools, and even the world.

But... the blender didn’t work. Nothing. Dead silence. Likely due to a sanctuary power issue.

In that moment, I felt completely embarrassed. My grand object lesson became a verbal summary. I walked away thinking, “That was a total failure.” I couldn’t even lift my eyes to the kids or the congregation.

But then something unexpected happened. Everyone—everyone—was laughing. Not out of mockery, but with joy. It was a moment that became a cherished memory for the entire church.

That day stuck with the congregation far more than I realized. At my farewell potluck, Pastor Todd Karges and his wife Dianne wrote and sang a song just for me and my family. One line made the whole room erupt in laughter:

“Every week you would teach the kids to put God in their heart, But one day when you talked of God, the blender wouldn’t start.”

In hindsight, that “failure” became a moment of connection, of grace, and yes—of laughter. I received more love from the church than I ever imagined, not because I was perfect, but because God’s grace shines through our imperfections.

I’ve come to believe that maybe this is how God’s grace works—not despite our trials and errors, but through them. This means we all are under God’s grace!

“But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for power is made perfect in weakness.’ So I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may dwell in me.”

— 2 Corinthians 12:9

I shares the lyrics, which is one of the greatest gifts I have ever received in my life.

Kyu