Ordinary Time

Pause

The Spirit of God comforts, calls, and challenges.

You are comforted in moments when God seems hidden. You are called to share the gifts the Spirit reveals to you. You are challenged to be the presence of Christ in all you do, all you say, and in who you are.

Be open to the Spirit’s comfort and challenges now in these next quiet moments.

Listen

Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; and there are varieties of services, but the same Lord; and there are varieties of activities, but it is the same God who activates all of them in everyone. To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good.

1 Corinthians 12:4–7

Think

It has been said that variety is the spice of life. A pastor told me once that his multi-ethnic church is not a melting pot, but rather a colorful fruit salad. In the melting pot, everything starts to look the same. In the fruit salad, the colors and uniqueness of each fruit stands out, while standing alongside other fruits. I am always thankful when I walk into a church youth room and see variety, where fashion and tastes vary, yet everyone is together.

All of the things that make you different from others, and them different from you, come from the one God. The variety of gifts, services, and activities all come from a God that loves you very much and celebrates you for who you are in God’s Spirit. As you appreciate what makes you unique, and celebrate what makes others unique, you celebrate the creativity of God and open the possibilities of how the Kingdom grows. So celebrate the you that God created you to be!

Brian Foreman

Pray

Creator God, thank you for making me unique and special in your eyes. Help me to be less critical of myself and see myself through your eyes. Amen.

Go

As the Spirit comforts you, give comfort to others. As the Spirit calls you, respond with your gifts. As the Spirit challenges, be the loving presence of God to the world around you.