April 7, 2023

Guest Column / Richard Etienne

Let’s help build God’s kingdom with our gifts and talents

Richard EtienneThere is a scene in the popular children’s animated film Finding Nemo where a flock of seagulls are seen chirping, “Mine, mine, mine, mine, mine … !” What an amazing image!

An unlimited number of creatures see an edible object—and every one of them wishes to claim this morsel as their own.

Aren’t most humans often like these birds at the most basic level?

It is so easy to become territorial and selfish with our belongings. And yet, it becomes quite apparent as we age how little a person really owns anything for extended periods of time.

Aren’t we just momentary stewards (caretakers) of a few possessions for a time—be it a few minutes, hours, days or years—only to realize that everything is a gift from God and eventually moves beyond our grasp?

As I reflect on this, I am reminded of the “parable of the rich fool” in Chapter 12 of St. Luke’s Gospel (Lk 12:16-21) in which a rich man had a “bountiful harvest” (Lk 12:16).

Because he did not have enough storage space, he decided to tear down his barns and build bigger ones. The man then dies and is asked to account for the use of his possessions. The parable ends with this warning: “Thus it will be for the one who stores up treasure for himself, but is not rich in what matters to God” (Lk 16:21).

If we live long enough, it becomes clear that almost no material thing is ours for long. Therefore, I believe, it is good to develop an attitude of generosity with both the material gifts—as well as the various skills—with which God has blessed us.

Take time today to reflect on how you can share more of your gifts and talents. And while you’re at it, ask God for the strength to make a plan and to put into motion how our Creator leads you.

Remember: God’s kingdom won’t build itself.
 

(Richard Etienne has a degree in theology from Saint Meinrad Seminary and School of Theology in St. Meinrad and resides in Newburgh, Ind.) †

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