Rev Michael Cavanagh +353 (0)858 533 173

Praying Together 19th November 2023

by | Nov 19, 2023 | Pray Together, St Patrick's Church Kenmare News

cellist playing their cello

Collect for second Sunday Before Advent

Heavenly Father, whose blessed Son was revealed to destroy the works of the devil and to make us the children of God and heirs of eternal life: Grant that we, having this hope, may purify ourselves even as he is pure; that when he shall appear in power and great glory, we may be made like him in his eternal and glorious kingdom; where he is alive and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever.

1 Thessalonians 5: 1-11

Matthew 25: 14-30

Q. Can you play the trumpet?
A. No
Q. Have you ever tried to play the trumpet?
A. No
Q. So how do you know you can’t play the trumpet?

Most of us know the passage well, and we have probably heard many sermons that remind us that we must use the gifts God has given to us. Whatever gifts and whatever level we are blessed with, there is a role for them in God’s plan.

The standard sermon continues by telling us that it’s not good enough just to use them – we must develop them – just as the trustworthy slaves invested the talents they were given. No point on having gifts if they aren’t used.

This saying is true and worthy of full acceptance, to paraphrase 1 Timothy.
But the Gospel message doesn’t end there.

It might not be the trumpet. Or the Clarinet. A Trombone, Double Bass, a singing voice. It may not be music at all. If not, there are many other skills you may have been given that you are not yet aware of: artistic talent, hospitality, compassion, intercession, forgiveness, unconditional love. There will be some. And I challenge you to think, pray and try to find out what they are.

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