By Zoe Cannon
Gratitude for the Gift of Faith
He said to them, “Because of your little faith. Amen, I say to you, if you have faith the size of a mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you” (Matthew 17:20).
Faith is an encounter with Jesus! Our intentional meeting with Jesus provides the gifts we need for the mission before us. God has a purpose for each unique and unrepeatable life. Do you acknowledge the gifts God gives you?
We are created for relationships, so we grow in faith through our connection with others. Faith is not just a system of knowledge, things we are told, or an outline to help us understand who we are. Our potential is achieved with grace from God and support from others. God desires that we recognize our need for one another. Every baptized person is infused with grace and holiness to live out our call.
I want my students of religion and history to understand our salvation story. I created a unit on the 14 historical books of the bible, and the faithful people responsible for leading us on the road to salvation. There are 12 books from the Old Testament, and two from the New Testament that make up these historical books. Our path to salvation is like a superhighway. In this journey, we are studying Genesis, Exodus, Numbers, Joshua, Judges, 1 and 2 Samuel, 1 and 2 Kings, Ezra, Nehemiah, 1 Maccabees, Luke and Acts of the Apostles. The major figures like Noah, Abraham, Moses, David, the Maccabees, Jesus and the apostles reveal powerful witness.
This teaching is coupled with inspiration to pray for eyes of faith. Knowing why and how Jesus suffered for us brings us into a closer relationship with Him. He died to make men holy — Something we should never forget!
Affirming one another as one Body in Christ with many responsibilities is God’s plan. If you notice a special talent, especially in young children, be sure to encourage them. People recognize athletic ability and spend time and money to improve the talent. The same strength can be developed in young people using their spiritual gifts. It is important to remind children to ask God for help in discerning their vocation in life.
My 11-year-old grandson, Hunter, has a unique artistic ability. He told me he was happy God chose that gift for him to share. We encourage him to use his skill, and his parents provide the supplies he needs. He entered an 18×24 acrylic canvas in a public library art contest. He won first place and used the $50 prize money to buy more art supplies. While making his purchases, a very kind woman asked him about his interest in art. She was a retired art teacher and was very complimentary when he shared a picture of his winning entry. Her words of encouragement meant so much to him.
His artwork was crafted from a photograph taken while on vacation at the Grand Tetons. His family got up early for the mountain sunrise at Moulton Barn. During the experience, he noticed a man capturing the moment from the back of his van. The artist shared his website and encouraged Hunter to practice his skill.
We may never know if our encouragement helps someone, but our Church and our world need the voice of faith to share our reason for believing. “The heart of the person plans his way, but the Lord directs his steps” (Proverbs 16:9). Nothing will be impossible for you! Share truth! Amen!
Zoe Cannon lives in Morgantown, Indiana, and is a member of Sts. Francis and Clare Parish in Greenwood, Indiana.