25 July 2022 Saint James, Apostle

We are only the earthenware jars that hold this treasure,
to make it clear that such an overwhelming power comes from God and not from us.

From 2 Corinthians 4: 7-15 NRSV

This is a beautiful and reassuring image! All of us have gifts and each of us is given many opportunities to use them – to honour God and to make the lives of those around us that bit better. But, sometimes, we become concerned that if we acknowledge this, we are being “proud”.  We might be aware that we have done something special – something that made a real difference to someone else and be worried about taking the credit. This little extract is really helpful at such times. We can rejoice in what we have done and take delight in it, knowing that we have simply allowed the love of God to flow through us to someone who needed it.

• • When have you rejoiced at some good you have been able to do?
  • Is it “pride” to be aware of the gifts God has given to you – and to use them?

Spend some time today thinking about the gifts you have – thanking God for each of them. Then ask for the grace to be generous in using them.