Notice, in yesterday’s reading, St. Paul reminded us that the gifts we have received are to be used for the common good (1 Corinthians 12:7). We all want to use our gifts wisely, but we often feel conflicted as to how God is calling us to use them.
Pope Francis explains in his encyclical Joy of the Gospel that a faithful person or community always bears fruit, “because the Lord wants her to be fruitful.” Mission is our goal as Christians, and that mission is to carry out the work of Jesus Christ on Earth — to be the hands and feet of Jesus for others. The Works of Mercy (see below) are our guide, because Jesus taught them in the Beatitudes (Matthew 5:1-11). Pope Francis says that the Works of Mercy are so important, they are “like a Christian’s identity card.”
It can be difficult to discern exactly what our personal mission is. We may have trouble deciding how to use our gifts and where God is calling us. We may compare ourselves to others and try to be like them, but God has given each of us unique gifts and circumstances. He is calling us to be the best we can be in whatever circumstances we are in right now.
Today, find time to be still, silent, and alone with God. Feel His presence within and around you. Call upon the Holy Spirit to guide you and reflect on your personal call to mission and holiness.
Pray the Advent Prayer.
Click the video below to listen to today’s song for reflection.
Read Matthew 7:16-20 and Romans 12:1-2
Spend at least 15 minutes in silence.
Express your gratitude to God for His abiding love. Pray for the grace of knowing His unique mission for you.
Works of Mercy
Corporal Works of Mercy
The corporal works of mercy are kind acts by which we help our neighbors with their material and physical needs.
Feed the hungry
Give drink to the thirsty
Clothe the naked
Shelter the homeless
Visit the sick
Visit the imprisoned
Bury the dead
Spiritual Works of Mercy
The spiritual works of mercy are acts of compassion by which we help our neighbors with their emotional and spiritual needs.
Counsel the doubtful
Instruct the ignorant
Admonish sinners
Comfort the afflicted
Forgive offenses
Bear wrongs patiently
Pray for the living and the dead