It is so easy to allow our faith and our ministry to become something about us instead of the Lord. The word 'spirit' can be used so carelessly and loosely that it can become almost meaningless. Paul or one of his followers reminds us that everything begins and ends in the spirit. The nature of the spirit is peace and love, and when these are absent, so is the spirit. We should not compare our gifts to others or compete. Every gift that is given is for service to others and the common good - they are not our possessions, for we are all one. Rejoicing in the gifts that we have and vowing to use them for good is a huge step on the road to spiritual maturity.

Many people mistakenly think that religion is a place for the saved and the holy, and they wish to exclude anyone who does not measure up to their standards. Churches often make people who are marginalized or struggling feel unwelcome and unloved. Jesus challenges us to see things in a new way. Our faith community is where we go for mutual support, spiritual growth, learning, and community. We are not perfect - we are not saints - we are ordinary people, with weaknesses and sins. But we are called - called to love and to serve. When we show mercy and compassion to others instead of judgment and rejection we are truly standing in the sandals of Jesus Himself. Let us reach out and welcome those who are most in need.