We usually think of gratitude in simple terms: if someone gives us a gift, we say, “Thank you.” But perhaps the deepest expression of gratitude is not just words — it is using the gift that has been given.
As we celebrate Pentecost, we remember the Lord Jesus pouring out the Holy Spirit upon the Apostles. Jesus had promised them this gift: not merely an idea, not simply encouragement, but God giving Himself to them through the Holy Spirit. Yet this gift was never meant to remain private or hidden away. The gift of the Holy Spirit was given so that it might build up others and strengthen the Body of Christ.
In one of the Pentecost Gospel readings, Jesus breathes on the Apostles and says: “Receive the Holy Spirit. Whose sins you forgive are forgiven them.” He gives them a mission and a purpose. They are not simply meant to receive the gift and admire it; they are meant to use it.
Imagine if the Apostles had responded differently. Imagine if after receiving the Holy Spirit they had said, “This feels wonderful. Let’s stay here together and keep this for ourselves.” Before Pentecost they had already been huddled together in a locked room, fearful and uncertain. But when the Spirit came upon them, something changed. They received courage, wisdom, understanding, and strength. They were moved outward. They went into the world carrying the greatest message anyone could ever hear: that Jesus Christ had conquered sin and death.
Pentecost took them out of the room.
I think many of us can recognize ourselves in that room as well. We become comfortable in our “huddles.” We stay where faith feels safe and familiar. We receive God’s gifts but hesitate to step out and use them.
In a sense, every Mass is our upper room. Here we gather together and receive the grace of God. Here we hear His word, receive His mercy, and are fed with Christ Himself. But Mass was never meant to end at the final blessing. We are sent forth. We are sent into our homes, workplaces, schools, and communities carrying what we have received.
Each of us has been given gifts by God. Some may have the gift of speaking and encouraging others. Some have the gift of prayer and intercession. Some have wisdom and knowledge that can teach and guide others. Some have the gift of listening and compassion. Others have resources and blessings that allow them to support those in need or strengthen the Church.
The question Pentecost asks us is simple: What are we doing with these gifts?
We often say, “Thank you, Lord, for your blessings.” We thank Him for faith, for grace, for eternal life, and for the Holy Spirit. But if those gifts remain unused, they become like presents left unopened.
The greatest way to thank God is not simply by saying the words. The greatest way to thank Him is by using what He has given us.
When we use His gifts in service, in love, in generosity, and in witness, our lives themselves become praise. May God be glorified not only by what we say at Mass, but even more by how we live once we leave it.
Fr. James Schibi, Pastor