Immaculate Conception Catholic Parish in Cottonwood recently shared a gospel meditation on the topic of using what God has given us. 

"God gives us the gift of His very self and asks us to invest it. Investing God’s greatest gift of Himself wisely, allows God's kingdom to grow and flourish," the meditation, published in the Nov. 15 parish bulletin, stated. "God trusts us with this pearl of great price in hopes that it will produce abundant fruit." 

But even though this pearl is given to us, it is not meant to be held onto selfishly, but rather to be shared with everyone around us. 

"When we properly invest God’s greatest gift, His most treasured possession, we invest in the well-being of all of our brothers and sisters and the world in which we live," the meditation said. "We take up most seriously our call to be stewards and properly manage not only our own affairs but the affairs of those around and before us."

When there are individuals who we love and care about, it can be easy to put the extra work in, but what about individuals who we do not know so well? Would we give up everything to ensure that they come to know God too? 

"Fear and a lack of trust can loom large," the meditation said. "We are afraid of letting go of what is 'mine' and apprehensive of jeopardizing what we have in order to venture into something bigger and more promising. Fear and lack of trust serve no purpose in God's kingdom. They benefit neither the person nor God. What is required is a courageous resolve that produces the fortitude necessary to stay the course and do what God is asking."

Let us remember to invest this precious gift from God with wisdom, rather than squander it or keep it only for ourselves. It is meant for everyone. Let us help to share it freely.