A WORD FOR TODAY JANUARY 26, 2023

*A WORD FOR TODAY*

*PUT YOUR GIFTS INTO USE*

_"for God did not give us a spirit of timidity but a spirit of power and love and self-control. Do not be ashamed then of testifying to our Lord, nor of me his prisoner, but take your share of suffering for the gospel in the power of God"(2 Timothy 1:7-8)_

_*It is always good to have someone who admonishes you as a mentor and helps you to stay focused in the journey of life especially as it concerns your spirituality. This will help you to stay guided in the path of good and happiness.*_

_Today as we celebrate the memorial of Sts. Timothy and Titus, two great disciples of our Lord Jesus Christ and companions of St. Paul we read in the first reading the wonderful admonition that St. Paul gave to Timothy which is recommended to us also._

_*He admonished him to rekindle the gift of God in him and put it into use. He was instructed to fan it into flame so that it does not lie dormant and unused.*_

_We have been given the mandate to go out and proclaim the Good news as the gospel reading relates, but we must do it with the spirit of boldness, power, self- control and love. We must take away fear and timidity from our lives if we are going to be good witnesses for the Lord._

_*We must constantly share the faith we have received. This is our calling and we must take it seriously. Do not allow the things of this life to quench the fire you have. Make sure your light is constantly burning and there will be no room or space for laxity and fear.*_

_Put your gifts into good use. Make sure you are using it to win souls for Christ and to mentor others in the path of righteousness. Do not waste what God has deposited in you. Proclaim His name everywhere you go with courage and give it your all and you will be happy in the end._

_*Good morning dearest one. Smile😊as you do your work and do have a great day. May Jesus give you the grace to make use of your gifts for the salvation of souls. And may the Almighty God bless you: the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Amen.*_

*Meditation:* 2 Timothy 1:1-8/Psalm 96:1-3,7-8,10/Luke 10:1-9

*Watch-Word:* The harvest is indeed plentiful, but the labourers are few

*Do not waste what God has put in you, use your gifts well and you will win souls for Him.*

(Thursday of the third week of the ordinary time. Memorial of Sts. Timothy and Titus)

*© Rev. Fr. Augustine Eleke*