When God gives gifts
Podcast
- Listen to this homily
Scripture references
Reflection
There’s a sort of unwritten but widely practiced tradition in many parts of the world that calls for cake, candles and some kind of party to celebrate major moments in our lives. The celebration of birthdays, anniversaries, weddings and even retirements are just not complete without some kind of sweet desert, usually shared among all the invited guests.
This weekend, there are eighteen children in this parish who will receive Jesus in the Eucharist for the very first time. Following the Mass, there will be a reception in the parish hall, complete with cake and other refreshments because this is indeed a very special day in the lives of these children.
There’s another tradition that often accompanies major celebrations in our culture, and that is the giving of gifts. Whether small or large, they are tokens of appreciation or affection, usually given as a gesture of celebration and love. Today, there will also be gifts given and received; every time we celebrate Mass, Jesus gives us the gift of himself in the Eucharist. Simple everyday elements of bread and wine are transformed into his body and blood, but it’s only through frequently receiving these gifts, and taking time to talk to him in prayer about the true meaning of these gifts that we come to understand how truly awesome they are.
The Eucharist is indeed very special, but it wasn’t the only gift that God gave to us. After Jesus ascended to heaven, God sent the Holy Spirit to the disciples. The Holy Spirit dwells in each one of us who believe and completes the work that Jesus began by filling us with His grace.
The Holy Spirit brought with it some other gifts which God shares with us: understanding, courage, patience, kindness, joy, love and reverence. Parents and their young children are being invited this week to reflect on the many ways these gifts are present in our lives. Perhaps those of us who are more advanced in earthly wisdom could benefit from also taking some time to consider how these gifts are present in our lives. Without them, the world would indeed be a very sad place, but with them, we have the power to change our outlook on life. We have the ability to make a difference in the world.
Who among my family members and friends could benefit most from an act of kindness this week? Is there someone who brings me joy or makes me happy? Be especially on the lookout this week for circumstances that might call for some extra understanding or patience, and ask yourself if there are moments when you need a bit more courage to do the things you know you should. Perhaps we will be called this week to demonstrate concern for another person, born out of love, or perhaps we will come to a new and more profound appreciation for the reverence with which we must approach the people and moments in our lives that call us to a deeper understanding of all that is holy.
For all of this, and more, we give thanks.
