Throughout my life, I’ve worked on many different DIY building projects. I’ve built a deck, several fences, six or eight pieces of furniture, shelves, tables, and many other things I’ve forgotten about and have probably thrown out long ago. And, I’m pretty creative, too. I devised a neat way to install the lattice work under our deck so it’s hinged and I can get into that snake pit if ever I need to. Which I do from time to time.
I’ve also built the normal things a father builds for his kids, like tricycles and bicycles, doll houses, play houses, and sandboxes. And, over the years I’ve done a good bit of work on my assortment of cars – mostly before they made the inner workings nothing more than a gasoline-powered computer.
On most of my projects I’ve worked alone, except the deck and one of the fences where I got help from a neighbor. Well, Sandra did help a little with the lattice work, but everything else has been a one-man project. And through all these projects, there’s one thing I’ve learned. One thing that is important enough that I will undoubtedly share it with my grand kids.
With almost every project, there’s always a point where you realize it would be a lot easier if you just had a third hand. Now, don’t get me wrong. I think God did a real good job designing the human body considering He had only a part of one day for both the design and construction and in that time he created a man and a woman. I just think a third hand would have been a nice option if it could be there when you need it. I’m not saying it should be there all the time, because then it would probably get in the way. But if you think about it, I’m sure most people would agree that a third hand would really come in handy (pun intended) at those times when two just aren’t enough. Moms, think about how it would help with changing diapers or dressing the kids. Or how about when you have to carry the groceries into the house and you get to the door and all two of your hands are already full. No, I think a third hand could easily be justified if God ever decides to change the master plan.
But just when I had come to terms with my two-handedness, I got a third hand. Really, I did. And, it just seemed to come out of nowhere. Now don’t go running for your cameras and expect some photo op for the National Enquirer. This isn’t like that. My third hand is probably not at all what you’re thinking.
Okay, stay with me now. When I’m asked to serve, I never pray about it. Never. If I’m not already committed to doing something else, I usually just say yes. And, no, I haven’t always said yes. In the past, my first response was usually to say no. But you see, I learned that if I say yes and God doesn’t want me to do it, He has ways to get my attention. Trust me. So I have plenty of opportunities to serve. And, with these opportunities, come more opportunities to ask others to help. And, you know what I found out? There are always plenty of willing people at the Creek who are happy to serve. That’s one of the great things about the Creek. If you ask people to serve, most will do whatever is needed. Okay, there are some who pray until the opportunity passes, but the rest are usually willing to pitch in when asked.
So, what about my third hand? What’s that all about? Well, a third hand is a rare kind of servant. The kind that just shows up ready to serve before you have the chance to ask for help. They just seem to know what’s needed and jump right in. My third hand is Pastor Brian. Whenever I’m doing something and my two hands are already full and I really could use a third hand, he’s there. My third hand just pops up, out of nowhere, and takes part of my load. No words are spoken. They aren’t needed. He’s just there – before I can ask for help. And he’s gone just as quickly (either back to taking care of his own responsibilities or, probably, being a third hand for someone else). As a matter of fact, he’s usually gone before I get to say, “Thanks.”
And, you know what’s pretty cool? Anyone can be a third hand for someone. All it takes is the right attitude. That and getting good at lurking around corners and finding just the right time to jump out and help before being asked and then disappearing. It’s a pretty unique talent. If you want to know how to do it, ask Pastor Brian. If he’s not hiding, waiting to jump out and help someone, he’s usually pretty easy to find. He’ll be the one serving wherever he’s needed.
For a better description of a Third Hand Ministry, read Hebrews 13:16.
Thom Fishow
June 14, 2009