Monday Inspirations 07/13/26

Posted July 13, 2026

Inspiration to Start the Work Week

St. Paul's Letter to the Romans 12:6-14
Brethren, having gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, let us use them: if prophecy, in proportion to our faith; if service, in our serving; he who teaches, in his teaching; he who exhorts, in his exhortation; he who contributes, in liberality; he who gives aid, with zeal; he who does acts of mercy, with cheerfulness. Let love be genuine; hate what is evil, hold fast to what is good; love one another with brotherly affection; outdo one another in showing honor. Never flag in zeal, be aglow with the Spirit, serve the Lord. Rejoice in your hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer. Contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality. Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse them.

Dear Parishioners and Friends,

I shared the above reading during the sermon on Sunday. What a great reading to inspire and direct us in our lives. We are all given certain gifts that God calls us to use according to his will. When we listen and are obedient to his call, we can put these gifts to work joyfully.

The admonitions in this reading encourage us to love and honor one another and to serve the Lord with zeal. We are called to be hopeful, patient, and constant in prayer. Doing so will serve us well.

We are called to be mindful of the needs of others to assist them with generosity. Practicing hospitality is also a beautiful way to show love towards others and build community.

Finally, when persecuted, we are not to retaliate, but to bless and attempt to bring an end to hostilities.

This is clear and wonderful advice for how to be a christian in the world. I pray you will take these words to heart and put them into action.

May God bless you in doing so.

Wishing you a blessed work week!

Love in Christ,
Fr. Paul

St. Ignatius (Brianchaninov): 
"Each human vessel carries a separate, unique, and distinct ability! Each human vessel is a container with its own unique, spiritual gifts... All the gifts given by Holy Spirit to the faithful are intended to help each other and to fulfill God's will."

St. John Chrysostom: 
"Behold, the Master has entrusted you with the talent, my soul. Receive the gift with fear. Repay the One who gave by giving to the poor, and gain the Lord as your friend... Do you think that the man-loving God has given you much so that you could use it only for your own benefit?"