Teaching is a gift of the Spirit and is very important in today’s world. If you think you are not educated enough to grasp the gift of teaching, I might ask if you’ve ever read a bible story to a child or taught a child to pray…you just might have exercised the gift of teaching! If we look back on the church’s great theologians, they had four characteristics: a deep love for the Word of God; an organized plan of study; a deep desire to inform others; and the ability to communicate on the student’s level. Think about that the next time you have the privilege of reading a bible story to a grandchild. God just may be blessing you with the gift of Teaching.

Hospitality is a wonderful gift from God, and someone who probably didn’t have that gift was Benjamin Franklin. He coined the phrase, “Dead fish and visitors both stink after three days.” Hospitality means love for strangers and making others feel welcome in any setting. We share this gift on Sundays with parishioners and visitors alike. While many enjoy using this gift regularly, it’s a gift that is stretched when dealing with people different from us. Yet, it’s our duty to spread the love of Jesus in this world. As I say every Sunday…Look for the face of Jesus in everyone you meet, and may everyone you meet see the face of Jesus in you.

Pray that God will allow you to recognize His gifts in you!

About the author: Previously the priest at St. Francis of Assisi in Lake Placid for 21 years, Rev. Elizabeth L. Nelson is now the Priest at Good Shepherd Episcopal Church in LaBelle.