Dear Fathers, Friends in Christ,
'Caring for Our Gifts'
Do not give what is holy to dogs, or throw your pearls before swine...
Matthew 7:6
It was difficult for me to develop the virtue of prudence. Eager to assume the best about others and be generous with my gifts and talents, I have had to learn some painful lessons about cautiousness and the importance of carefully considering how my actions might impact my future.
When Jesus proclaims that we should be selective about how and where we share our gifts, what he is saying is that we need to be good stewards. We need to take good care of the gifts we have been given, and we need to take care of ourselves. If we expose ourselves foolishly, that could lead to abuse. If we take our gifts for granted, we might not be offering them for God's purposes as we are called to do. On the other hand, if our gifts and our selves are well cared for, then we will be better able to serve the beloved community. Then, together, we can celebrate God's goodness!
Father Ed Bakker
Anglican Catholic Church / Original Province
Mission of Saint Aidan of Lindisfarne
Launceston on Tasmania
Australia
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