A Glimpse of God's Creation and the Gifts of the Holy Spirit

As my daughter and I enjoyed the gift of nature this week, I reflected upon the Gifts of the Holy Spirit, from whom gives life to our Christian faith.   As we approach Pentecost Sunday, I am especially grateful for these gifts that inspire my family to live a holy life, amidst inevitable trial and challenge.

~In nature, I always rediscover the abundant peace in the beauty of God's creation~
...I wanted to share these glimpses of gifts that I saw through my camera lens...

~1. Wisdom ~ 
I saw the perfection of faith through the heart of Christian belief. ..The value of loving Creation for the sake of God, rather than for its own sake...

~2. Understanding ~ 

I saw more clearly the mysteries of faith~We gain a certitude about our beliefs that move beyond faith,  when we see the hand of God at work all around us.  

~3.  Counsel ~
 Am I able to judge how best to act by intuition and am I warned of the deceits of the devil?  I pondered this over swift water that could sweep anyone down the rushing abyss in an instant!

~4. Fortitude ~

I yearn to do the will of God in all things.  It helps me walk out into the world and feel prepared to stand up for what I believe...I desire to be a living witness so my children may have courage to do the same.

~5. Knowledge ~ 

I pray for my family to know ourselves and the world around us.  This will enable each of us to discover the will of God in all things.

~6.  Piety ~

I also pray that our family may always love God as a Father and obey Him, beyond a sense of duty, because we love Him.

~7. Fear of the Lord ~ 

I seek unending desire not to offend God because of my true love for Him.  I stand firm in certainty that God will supply me and my family the grace to do this...

The Spirit of God is the life that animates the Church, the Body of Christ.  The vivid images of breath, wind, fire, and water help our limited imaginations to catch a glimpse of the intense mystery without which the church would be lifeless...

(May Magnificat pg. 311)

"I will pour out water upon the thirsty ground, and streams upon the dry land.  I will pour out my spirit upon your offspring, and my blessing upon your descendants. ~Is 44:3~

When the spirit from on high is poured out on us.  Then will the desert become an orchard and the orchard be regarded as a forest.  Right will dwell in the desert and justice abide in the orchard.  Justice will bring about peace; right will produce calm and security.  My people will live in peaceful country, in secure dwellings and quiet places.~Is. 32:15-18~

~I am grateful for this little glimpse of God's grace~

Lord, send forth your spirit and renew the face of the earth.

~Ps. 104:30~

Resource Used:  Gifts of the Holy Spirit