IDENTIFYING AND USING OUR GIFTS

HOMILY, SATURDAY OF THE 29^TH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME YEAR A Eph 4:7-16, Luke 13: 1-9 When we know that we do not have equal grace, we will stop comparing ourselves with others. For, “grace was given to each of us according to the measure of Christ’s gift.” Eph 4:7 Each is given the grace that is commensurate to his or her gifts. In economic parlance, we call this comparative advantage. This only explains the reason for efficiency and not a ground for competition. Our gifts complement one another. Hence, no one has the audacity to boast. Whoever we may be, we need other to stand no matter how insignificant we view their gifts or their contribution to the society. Our varieties should help us to build a united front and not to be used to play game of differences. Taking Nigeria as a case study, if not for the demon of religion, the different ethnic groups with their different gifts and endowments can feed the whole world. Jesus gives gifts “for the equipment of the saints, for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ, until we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to mature man hood, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ.” Eph 4:12-13 If we know that whatever we have is a product of God’s grace, we will be humble and be ready to include others in our plans. By this, we respect them, we know our boundaries in our relationship with others and we do not look down on anyone. Let us pray that we may know our own gifts. Any tree that is not bearing its fruit will be cut down. Luke 13:7. For those who have not identified their gifts, it is time to be awakened to them. God does not want any of his trees to be fruitless. May God help us to discern his gifts in us that we may cherish them and use them appropriately. May he help us to respect his gifts in others, so that we may form a unity of love working earnestly for the same and one God. Amen.