Jack—a baboon—was purchased in 1881 by a South African Railroad employee (James Wide) who trained him to become his assistant. Four years earlier, James was in a terrible accident and lost both of his legs, and because of this, he was struggling with his railroad job.

James found Jack at a nearby market and noticed he was pulling an oxcart. He was impressed and believed he could train Jack to push a trolley during the morning commute. But Jack really thrived as a signalman, and he was later taught how to operate the station switchboard!

After watching his owner, Jack learned how to throw switches and change tracks, and his work was so impeccable that he never experienced a single incident over the course of nine years.

Eventually, Jack could perform the duties without James’ supervision, and passing conductors had no idea that a baboon was operating the system until they saw it with their own eyes.

Jack was given an official employment number and paid 20 cents a day for the Port Elizabeth Railway Station. He continued working for the railroad company until his death in 1890.

Obviously, Jack wasn’t aware of his railroad skills until he tried something he’d never yet done. What about you? Could you have a skill . . . a gift . . . you’re not even cognizant of?

Would you pray about trying some new areas of ministry in your church and allow God to reveal if this is where He’d like to use you?

Who knows? You may excel at being a greeter, a children’s or youth worker, or an usher. Try something new in the area of church involvement! After all, if a baboon can operate a railroad, imagine what YOU can do if you’re willing to try something completely different.

“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others,
as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.” (1 Peter 4:10 NIV)

You are loved!
Susie