02
ST. ELIZABETH ANN SETON CATHOLIC CHURCH
E Bring Your Gifts to the Spotlight!
S T E WA R D S H I P
T
he word “talent” often conjures up images of stage performers in the spotlight, captivating awestruck audiences with their impeccable musical or acting skills. While these talented performers are certainly deserving of applause, the majority of the population sits hidden in the shadows, staring on in amazement while feeling overlooked — and perhaps wishing to possess such talents themselves. But even when we feel overlooked and untalented, God knows better. As Christians, we are all called to dig deep and trust that we are uniquely blessed with valuable talents and abilities, even if our talents aren’t so obvious or don’t garner applause and accolades. Along with “time” and “treasure,” “talent” is one of the “three Ts” of stewardship. Exploring our natural inclinations and preferences, especially when guided by the intricacies of our unique personalities, can unearth God-given talents. “There are different kinds of spiritual gifts, but the same spirit,” writes St. Paul in his First Letter to the Corinthians. “There are
TA L E N T
different forms of service, but the said, “Talent without discipline is same Lord.” like an octopus on roller skates. Some people have the gift of There’s plenty of movement, but working peacefully with children. you never know if it is going to be Equipped with forwards, backwards, patience and or sideways.” Our interests gentleness, they If our gifts of and abilities are talent are able to guide are not guided varied, and our young souls to by the discipline of the Lord. Yet, volunteer options prayer, just like an others shudder at octopus on roller are endless, as we skates, we will get the thought of a classroom full of are called to give nowhere fast! Yet, if 5-year-olds and our talents back we keep our eyes on instead seek the the goal of heaven to God in loving quiet solace of and serve the Lord behind-the-scenes service. Examine with joyfulness, our tasks — cleaning efforts will produce a your heart and the church, sewing bountiful harvest. In prayerfully discern the words of St. Paul altar cloths, or stuffing envelopes. to the Corinthians, your gifts, then Our interests “Whoever sows direct those gifts and abilities are sparingly will also towards serving the reap sparingly, varied, and our volunteer options and whoever sows people of God. are endless, as we bountifully will reap are called to give bountifully.” our talents back to God in loving The next time you sit quietly service. Examine your heart and in the shadows behind a glaring prayerfully discern your gifts, stage spotlight, rest assured that then direct those gifts towards your talents are no less impressive serving the people of God. in the eyes of God, and will always H. Jackson Brown, Jr., author be “applauded” when directed to of Life’s Little Instruction Book, once the service of His people.
