The greatest gift

Readings for Tuesday September 16, 2008

Memorial of Saint Cornelius, pope and martyr, and Saint Cyprian, bishop and martyr

First Reading:  1 Corinthians 12:12-14, 27-31a

Responsorial Psalm:  Psalm 100

Gospel:  Luke 7:11-17

Throughout our lives we receive many gifts and for many reasons; birthdays, Christmas, weddings, just because, etc.  Some gifts we receive have great meaning and become so precious to us.  While other gifts go onto the "re-gifting" shelf, or into storage only to be discovered a decade later when looking for garage sale items.  Regardless of how much thought or money was spent, no gift will ever be greater than those given to us from God.  

In Paul's letter to the Corinthians today Paul tells us of many spiritual gifts that we receive from God.  Some receive gifts of healing, mighty deeds, speaking in tongues, etc ... all of these gifts are very precious and truly show God's awesome power.  We would all be blessed to receive any number of the gifts of the Holy Spirit that Paul mentions.  Some gifts, however, may not be labeled as "spiritual gifts" or may not be as apparent as speaking in tongues.  Some gifts may be more private or more subtle, like an answered prayer or a financial gift during a tough time.  No matter the label or the multitude of the gifts, it is important for us to realize that God is the great giver of all the gifts in our lives, and each of the gifts we are given are all special.  

So why does God freely give us all of these gifts?  Because He loves us.  It is that simple.  I know that for me, when someone gives me a gift for no reason at all, I tend to question the motives behind the gift, but not with God.  God gives freely because He loves us.  And His love is one of the greatest gifts that we receive.  For without that love, He would not have sent His only Son to die for us so that way we could have a way to Him.  Because He loves us, He gives us life.  Look in the gospel today, if Jesus didn't love the people He wouldn't have had compassion for the woman in the gospel.  But He does, and because He was moved with compassion and love, He gave life to the young man and gave him to his mother.  

God shows us every day how much He loves us.  Sometimes it's clear and sometimes it's not.  Let us remember and be thankful today (and all days) for this love that God gives to us everyday.  Let us learn to not only accept this love, but to share it with others as well.  Love is the greatest gift, not just to receive ... but to give.

Today, how can you learn to love more and better?

        

Father above, we thank you for loving us so much and for sending your Son to die for our sins.  Our words are not enough to show you are gratitude, let us give you our lives.  Lord, help us to serve you always and without hesitation.  Lord, we pray for all those who are striving to know you, may you increase their faith.  We ask this all through Christ our Lord.  Amen.