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The Forward Day by Day Meditation for January 16, 2022

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SUNDAY, January 16 2 Epiphany

1 Corinthians 12:4-7 Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; and there are varieties of services, but the same Lord; and there are varieties of activities, but it is the same God who activates all of them in everyone. To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good.

In the writing class that I teach, I often hear students say they are not creative or talented enough to write something meaningful. This provides a perfect opportunity to talk about gifts and how we are each blessed with specific ones. At the same time, we may need to take some of our gifts to the gym, working them so they can put on muscle and strengthen. Sometimes, we may not even know our gifts until we put in the work so they can emerge and flourish.

Renowned poet Maya Angelou came to writing late in life. She became one of the greatest writers of all time, not out of luck or happenstance but because she worked that muscle, that gift. She had a story to give to the world, and she honored the call to write.

MOVING FORWARD: Is there a craft, hobby, or sport you are curious about but fear you may not be good at it? This might be the time to work that muscle and see how brilliant and brave you are with the gifts God will activate in you.

Pray for the Church of England

Ps 36:5-10 | Isaiah 62:1-5 | 1 Corinthians 12:1-11 | John 2:1-11