Sharing our time and talents

By Kristen Bourgeois

The call for volunteers is always happening. But I think the loudest call for volunteers is the one at the beginning of each school year.

Being a parent is a lot of hard work and the thought of adding more things to do can seem daunting. But, with thoughtful discernment to help navigate what things we should say “yes” to, sharing our time and talents is less daunting because this is something God has called all of us to do for his kingdom.

Early in my conversion, where I just didn’t know what my talents were, I shared my time. I gave my “reluctant yes” to share time with the parish youth group. My husband was the youth minister, and my yes was reluctant because this was unchartered waters for me.

But I learned that just “showing up” was the first good step.

Learning about the gifts of the Holy Spirit and charisms were helpful in discerning the talents given to me by God. But, it was also overwhelming and scary because sharing myself with others was vulnerable.

Was I good enough? Were my talents needed?  Do I have enough time to share with others on top of my family responsibilities?

It’s through my on-going conversion that I am learning who I really am including my talents, strengths and weaknesses. And, it is through my on-going conversion, that I am gaining the courage to share my time and talents for the kingdom of God. I no longer let the enemy convince me that I am not qualified to do what God has asked me to do.

Don’t underestimate what God can do with your “yes.”