Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good. 1 Corinthians 12:7
“When we have discovered that our sense of self does not depend on our differences and that our self-esteem is based on a love much deeper than the praise that can be acquired by unusual performances, we can see our unique talents as gifts for others. Then, too, we will notice that the sharing of our gifts does not diminish our own value as persons but enhances it. In community, the particular talents of the individual members become like the little stones that form a great mosaic. The fact that a little gold, blue, or red piece is part of a splendid mosaic makes it not less but more valuable because it contributes to an image much greater than itself. Thus, our dominant feeling toward each other can shift from jealousy to gratitude. With increasing clarity, we can see the beauty in each other and call it forth, so that it may become part of our total life together.”
Henri Nouwen in Compassion: A Reflection on the Christian Life (New York: Image Doubleday, 1983) 77-78.
You and I are part of something bigger. But our sense of self does not come from celebrating our differences (like many people tend to say in our world today) but the gratitude for being part of the whole. Ponder that.
The Spirit gives us each something to offer not to shine the light on ourselves but for the common good. Generosity comes into view as playing our part, as little stones, for the greater good and the glory of Christ, our Cornerstone.
In so doing, sharing our gifts does not diminish us but enhances us and those around us. We bring out the beauty in each other. Each of us has been blessed to be a blessing. We discover this in the community of the mosaic.