Second post: Today's second reading gave me a hint...

Strange as it may seem, I feel like a second post today is warranted. Not that I'm feeling any more at ease about the coming existential threats, but today, the second reading in church reminded me that I am not without power. The reading was from 1 Corinthians 4-11:

Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit. 5 And there are varieties of ministries, and the same Lord. 6 There are varieties of effects, but the same God who works all things in all persons. 7 But to each one is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good. 8 For to one is given the word of wisdom through the Spirit, and to another the word of knowledge according to the same Spirit; 9 to another faith [d]by the same Spirit, and to another gifts of [e]healing [f]by the one Spirit, 10 and to another the [g]effecting of [h]miracles, and to another prophecy, and to another the [i]distinguishing of spirits, to another various kinds of tongues, and to another the interpretation of tongues. 11 But one and the same Spirit works all these things, distributing to each one individually just as He wills (NASB, 1995).

I have God-given gifts and talents, and I will use them. For much of my adult life, I've been actively engaged in discernment, trying to figure out what it is that I'm meant to do. I mean, I teach high school, I've taught high school catechism, I helped build and run a softball league for over 100 girls, with a special focus on the 16U crew. I worry about kids going hungry, going unloved, going off the rails when they can't find a path forward. And I'm afraid for them, I really am-- but what good is it if I only fret? I am called, over and over again, to act. 

And so I will. I thought it was about time to pass the torch, but I was wrong: there are still some fires that need to be lit.

God willing, I will have the determination, the strength, and the patience needed to do what is put before me with grace and diligence. 

C












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