Daily Mass Reflections - 6/27

“Do people pick grapes from thornbushes, or figs from thistles?”

Today’s Gospel (Matthew 7:15-20) teaches us that we will ultimately be known for and judged by the fruit we bear during our short time here on Earth.

So how does one insure that he or she is bearing good fruit? Well, perhaps revisiting the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit is in order. After all, these gifts are instilled in each and every one of us (”the truth shall be written on their hearts” ~ Jeremiah 31:33 & Romans 2:15) and we are called to pray for and cultivate these gifts during our life’s journey. The gifts of the Holy Spirit are as follows:

o Wisdom
o Understanding
o Counsel
o Fortitude
o Knowlege
o Piety
o Fear of the Lord

Great news for those of you who recently entered into full communion with the Catholic Church: The Catechism teaches us that these gifts are fully received at Baptism and then strengthened upon the celebration of one’s Confirmation. Saint Thomas Aquinas has said that four of these gifts (wisdom, understanding, knowledge, and counsel) direct the intellect, while the other three gifts (fortitude, piety, and fear of the Lord) direct the will toward God.

Lots to contemplate on this the day that Scripture calls us to reflect upon the type of fruit that we’re bearing. By patiently nourishing the gifts of the Holy Spirit within our souls, we know that we are preparing the fertile soul necessary for these gifts to thrive and flourish.

Come Holy Spirit, enkindle the hearts of the faithful, so that we may renew the face of the Earth.