Doing great things for the kingdom!

“Tell me about yourself—what are your skills and talents?” For most of us, this can be a difficult question to answer with ease. We tend to not be able to recognize our own gifts. So, Saint Peter reminds us that each of us has received a gift to serve one another (1 Pet 4:10-11). 

The virtue of Magnificence enables us to undertake great things, using money, time, and talents to their full potential. The parable of the talents illustrates the beauty of this virtue. Both Matthew and Luke recount this teaching of Jesus and how one must first recognize the talent or gift and take the necessary steps to “invest” time in developing it in service to others. Service to others is an important aspect to understand in living this beautiful virtue. We are called to build up the kingdom of God here on earth, and have a responsibility to contribute to our communities or spaces so that God’s love will radiate. This is how we make a difference in our homes, communities, schools, workplaces, etc.   

While the virtue of magnificence has traditionally been manifested by an individual making a large financial contribution, we are holding up the excellence of self-gift in all its forms. May you spend time reflecting upon your God-given gifts and pray about ways you can contribute to increase the kingdom of heaven on earth.