While I consider myself a faithful Christian who strives to do the right thing by maintaining integrity with God's word, there is a lack of fulfillment that troubles me. I desperately want God's guidance in how best to serve him. Countless times I have asked, "Please show me what you would have me do?"

I think of the many wonderful Christians who are doing great things for God. One is a missionary who, at age 80, still travels the globe spreading God's word. Another is a "tent missionary" in a Muslim country. She became fluent in Urdu and, while teaching English, manages to sandwich in cultural activities, many of them Christian. Another couple served as medical missionaries in Africa among the poorest of the poor.

Another, a college professor of English, raised money singlehandedly to build an orphanage for abandoned boys in India. Another practices the art of healing touch, helping transform my physical and mental anguish through this amazing technique.

A beloved, saintly woman passing her final days in hospice taught centering prayer, a Christian form of meditation, bringing peace and tranquility to many troubled souls. Our pastor, who speaks God's word straight from the Bible and with passionate intensity every Sunday, sets the tone for the week ahead.

All these people are doing marvelous things for God.

And here I am, living a comfortable existence with no worries about my life being devastated by war or famine. I travel merrily along, always thankful for these privileges, always praising God, but always yearning to do more. The question lingers, "God, what can I do for you?"

God's answer is yet to come. During this time of questioning, I stay close to the word through Bible study, church attendance and daily prayer. I try to view each day as an opportunity to do the best I can. The Scout adage, "One good deed a day," is foremost in my mind. There are many small, seemingly insignificant acts one can perform (a smile at a harried shopper, a wave of the hand to a courteous driver, a visit to an ailing person, a heartfelt note of thanks or appreciation, a compassionate ear toward an upset friend). I believe that all of these can be meaningful in furthering our Christian walk.

Too trivial to count? I think not. God knows our hearts. Someday, he may show me a truly magnificent way to serve him. I will continue to ask, "What will you have me do?"

"I love the Lord because he hears and answers my prayers, because he bends down and listens, I will pray as long as I have breath." (Psalm 116: 1,2)

Perhaps what I am doing is enough in the Lord's eyes. I know that he listens to my request. While awaiting his response, I will continue to live the faith day by day and always do the very best I can. At the end of my earthly journey, I hope to hear his voice, "Well done, thou good and faithful servant." (Matthew 25:21)

Mary Aley Wilkinson holds a certificate in lay ministry from the Bible Institute of Hawaii and is a member of Hawaii Kai Church.