Today's meditation:
God does not give us talents for our own pleasaure and purpose; rather, God gives us talents primarily to serve the world in simple and generous ways.
from _Good Words_ (Saint Anthony Messenger Press, 2010)
This is the time of year when we count our blessings and give thanks to our generous God. We also share with our less fortunate brothers and sisters in charity. Why not also take inventory of the talents that God gave us, and examine how we share them with others?
Some guidelines to get your inventory started:
1. Pray for wisdom and insight from the Holy Spirit.
2. Look at what you do well. Think about when others complimented you and gave you feedback for a talent. Write them down, so you have the concrete evidence right in front of you.
3. Think of how you use this talent. When do you use it? How often? On a regular basis (weekly in church or ministry, daily in your family, in your job)? Just as needed (when someone asks for your help or a situation arises)?
4. Notice the last line in the quote: "to serve the world in simple and generous ways." Think of the simple ways that you use your talents. Think of "simple talents" that you have: the ability to listen, the gift of a kind word when needed, a servant's heart that will do the "dirty work" like cleaning up after a meal, the insight to know how to assess a situation and solve a problem. As you ponder these simple ways, does it add to your talent inventory?
5. Thank the Lord because you are "fearfully and wonderfully made." (Psalm 139) Ask the Lord to open you eyes to more opportunities to use these gifts in service to others.
One of the reasons why I love to teach is because I get to know all my wonderful students. When I teach the StrengthsQuest unit, I see some of their talents. I am always thankful for the variety of talents represented in those students. It's like looking at a meadow full of beautiful flowers, each different, each special, each adding to the whole lovely picture.
Give thanks to God, for his mercy and his generosity! Grace and peace to you all!
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