How generous are you in sharing your talents and gifts with the Church and community? - Daily Reflections September 23,2013

SHINING THROUGH

 

When Susan Boyle, a big, fat lady with “unkempt hair,” sashayed in the weirdest possible way on stage during one elimination night of Britain’s Got Talent a few years ago, she was met with laughter and heckling among the audience, who found her unfit for the competition. Until they heard her sing. Eventually, the unknown choir singer from a small, far-flung parish became an overnight sensation. The rest is history.

       The Gospel today makes it clear that one’s light should not be concealed but be seen for it to fulfill its being that — light! Persons are gifts, wrapped differently, but with something to offer. The Church is a potent avenue for people who have something to share to others.

       I myself felt that I had nothing to offer. The thought of being a priest puzzled me to no end because I don’t look or sound like a priest. As a new priest in Pasig, while sporting a shirt and casual denim pants before the Mass, someone asked me, “Where is the priest?” I whispered to myself, “Wait ‘til you see me in my soutane.” When he saw me a few minutes later, he exclaimed, “Oh, you’re a sacristan?” But the Lord, despite my unworthiness, made me His priest. As I delve deeper into the realm of self-offering, the more the Lord showers me with every good gift beyond my imagination.

       St. Pius of Pietrelcina, or Padre Pio, was an unassuming Capuchin monk who never wanted to be in the limelight. There was even a time when he was not allowed to celebrate Mass publicly to avoid making a spectacle out of the miracles happening in his celebrations. But it could not be concealed for long. He became more popular, especially as a sought-after confessor. Despite his desire to stay obscure and unnoticed, the more that his light shone and became known all over the world.

       The Lord invites us to let our lights shine. To those who unselfishly share whatever they have, more will be given. Those who choose to keep the gifts to themselves, the little that they have will be taken away. The time is now. You’ve got it. Let your light shine! Fr. Erick Y. Santos, OFS

 

REFLECTION QUESTION: How generous are you in sharing your talents and gifts with the Church and community?

 

Lord, may I humbly offer the best of myself to You and others each and every day of my life. Amen.