Do you ever feel like you’re made for more? More than what you’re currently doing. That you were made for a greater purpose? Have you prayed about what steps to take in your life and have even reached a few major milestones, yet something still feels missing? That’s because we’re called to a higher purpose than to complete standard societal milestones. We’re made to be the salt of the earth and the light of the world, and until we do so, we’ll feel a certain void that only God can fill.
If I had to sum up our purpose in life as Christians, it comes down to two things. First, to love the Lord our God with all our hearts, with all our souls, and with all our minds. Secondly, to love our neighbors as ourselves (see Matthew 22: 35-40).
We tend to over-complicate these two commands given to us in the Gospel, yet they are rather simple. Loving God is first and foremost, and how we do so is straightforward. We read His word, communicate with Him through prayer, and partake of Him through the sacraments. Our relationship with Him shapes us, guides us, and fills us with His love so that we may love others.
When we get filled with God’s love, we can love others. How we show up for others might look different for each of us.
Every person has been given a different set of gifts; the tricky part is figuring out which ones are yours. St. Paul reminds us, “There are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. There are differences of ministries, but the same Lord. And there are diversities of activities, but it is the same God who works all in all”(I Corinthians 12:4-6 [NKJV]).
Figuring out which gift you’ve been given and how to use it in ministry might take some time and exploration. In the same chapter, St. Paul’s goes on to give some examples, saying, “And God has placed in the church first of all apostles, second prophets, third teachers, then miracles, then gifts of healing, of helping, of guidance, and of different kinds of tongues” (I Corinthians 12:28 [NIV]).
Has God put something on your heart to share with others? Then you have the gift of prophecy— prophecy is simply delivering a message God has given you. Do people naturally open up to you about their problems, knowing you will give them sound advice? Then you have the gift of guidance. Are you always willing to lend a helping hand and enjoy how it makes others feel? Then you have the gift of helping.
Don’t be intimidated by that list if you don’t yet know what kind of gift you have. Think about the things that bring you joy when you do them. Or the things that might be painful, but you’re willing to endure the pain to achieve the outcome. Maybe there are things you love doing that others dread. Those are signs of knowing what kind of gift you have.
For me, it’s writing and speaking. As hard as it is to find the right words to express what I want to say and the hours it takes to craft a well-written blog or book, I love doing it. I’m always nervous before stepping out in front of a crowd waiting for me to deliver a certain message. But it feels exhilarating when I’m speaking. Watching the eyes of the curious minds before me always puts a smile on my face.
Jennifer Fulwiler, author, and comedian (who also happens to be Catholic), wrote a whole book on this concept. Your Blue Flame is a special skill, personal passion, gift, or talent that you have. She writes, “I believe that God is the source of all love, and so I like to think that your blue flame is your unique way of sharing a little bit of God with the world.”
This thing you love doing isn’t only for you but also your way of making this world a better place. When you do it, it gives you energy, no matter how exhausting it might be. Even though it takes a lot out of me when I write and speak, I show up better for my kids and family when I do. I’m happier knowing that there is some purpose I’m pursuing and fulfilling. Also, knowing that it helps others get a little closer to God makes it all worth it.
Think about what that blue flame is for you. You might already know exactly what it is. But if you don’t, then desire the best gifts (I Corinthians 12:30). Ask God to bless you with them for His glory. I can’t wait to see what God has in store for you and how He uses you!