seek the gifts
"God has set up in the Church first apostles, second prophets, third teachers, then miracle workers, healers, assistants, administrators, and those who speak in tongues." —1 Corinthians 12:28
Jesus "ascended high above the heavens, that He might fill all men with His gifts" (Eph 4:10). He commands us to set our hearts on spiritual gifts (1 Cor 14:1), especially on the greater gifts (1 Cor 12:31), "those that build up the Church" (1 Cor 14:12). The Lord does not want us to be ignorant of spiritual gifts (1 Cor 12:1). Consequently, the Father and the Son have sent the Holy Spirit not only to give us gifts, but also to help "us to recognize the gifts He has given us" (1 Cor 2:12).
In summary,
- each Christian has several gifts of the Spirit,
- we must recognize, use, and develop these gifts,
- we need the benefits of all the gifts of the Spirit, and
- therefore, we must seek out and be open to the ministry of other Christians as they use their spiritual gifts.
This is what it means to set our hearts on spiritual gifts. We should pray that we will recognize and use all our spiritual gifts. That even one spiritual gift in one Christian be undeveloped is a significant loss for the Church and the world. Furthermore, we should pray that the Lord open our eyes to see those around us gifted by the Spirit. Many of these Christians are not strongly developed in the use of their spiritual gifts, but they have such a treasure within them (see 2 Cor 4:7), if we can only appreciate it. Seek the gifts in yourself and in the Church.
Prayer: Holy Spirit, may I not waste in any way the gifts You gave me in Baptism and Confirmation.
Promise: Jesus "said, 'Young man, I bid you get up.' The dead man sat up and began to speak." —Lk 7:14-15
Praise: St. John Chrysostom used his gift of oration to build up the Church.
Rescript: †Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, February 23, 2016
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