Wednesday of Week 24 in Ordinary Time
1 Cor 12:31-13:13
Lk 7:31-35
Be ambitious for the higher gifts.
In my younger years, I was certainly an ambitious person. I wanted it all – that cushy job as a senior creative in an advertising agency; the fame and adulation that came with winning awards for the work I did; and naturally, all the ‘perks’ that came with a burgeoning reputation. Then, when I ran my own small business, I wanted to win accounts and make a lot of money. Unfortunately, that never came to fruition. Then, after my Christ encounter at my CER in 2011, things began to take on a slightly different slant.
Today, more than a decade later, as I navigate the twilight of my career, my ambitions are quite radically different. Since I chose to step back to a less prominent role last year, I desire less ‘earthly’ achievements and now look for more intangible fruits – time with loved ones, witnessing His miracles while ministering at retreats. Funnily enough, He has begun to call me to serve in various capacities within the centre where I serve primarily as a worship leader. And I am enjoying my time linking up with other ministry members and working across the ministries. I wonder if this is some form of ‘higher calling’ – where I get to build bonds and unite members towards a single purpose/project/event.
I followed the recently-concluded Paralympics for a bit as Singapore produced a double gold medal swimmer (this was her third ‘double win’). We also celebrated a first-time finalist in boccia, who eventually won a silver medal. Quite frankly, those performances touched me more than the exploits of athletes in the Paris Olympics. Don’t get me wrong, I am in awe of every athletes’ achievements just to become an Olympian – the sacrifices, hard work, resilience and grit are truly laudable. But when I witness the performances of Paralympians, I believe that their ambitions go far beyond representing their countries.
Brothers and sisters, we are all on our own journeys of faith. Some of us have climbed mountains, some are dwelling in valleys, most of us struggle to put one foot ahead of the other. Perhaps it is timely for us to set a goal, no matter how small or large, so that we can look ahead and rely on God’s strength to keep us focussed. Some of us just need to make it to mass each Sunday. Some of us want to complete a Novena. For some, we want to motivate and inspire a group of children or young adults. Whatever our ambitions are, let us keep praying that our heavenly Father will continue to equip us with the right tools and give us all His love and support.
(Today’s OXYGEN by Desmond Soon)
Prayer: Heavenly Father, you want what is best for us and you call us to be the best versions of ourselves, made in Your image. Help us to discern what we should strive for, as we seek to fulfil your calling. Amen
Thanksgiving: We thank you, dear Father, for opening up opportunities to serve in your kingdom. And for those who you put in our way to mentor and inspire us.
OXYGEN 
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