God’s Gifts

Immaculate Conception Mass: Salesian Reflection
Julian Cherundolo
Salesianum School 2025 

Hello everyone, for those of you who don’t know me, my name is Julian Cherundolo and I am a member of the class of 2025. I would like to talk about the gifts that God has given to us and how it relates to our readings from today’s Mass.

In the First Reading, we were reminded how Adam and Eve ate the forbidden fruit and began original sin. In the second reading, we see a letter from Saint Paul to the Ephesians reminding us how God created us with a plan to love Him and be His children. Lastly, but most importantly, today’s Gospel talks about the Virgin Birth, how Mary was chosen and fulfilled her role, humbled herself, and put her full trust in God. Looking at these scripture readings, we are presented with different stories and lessons. But, if we take a deeper dive into it we can find a common ground. In all of the scripture, God’s love, gifts, and plans for us are revealed in many different ways. As we know, we are called by God daily to serve a role in our community, whether it’s in our school, family, church, sport, or whatever is big or small. In Mary’s case, she was given a HUGE role in giving birth to Jesus, and unlike Adam, she obeyed God and followed through. She is rewarded with not only the gift of life but the gift of giving birth to the Messiah. 

We have been given many gifts by God big and small whether we know it or not. Personally, the biggest gift God has given me is leadership and the ability to be one of the captains of the Track and Field team. 

When I first was chosen for the role I was excited and optimistic to lead the team, hopefully to another state championship, but as the season started I began to realize that this role wouldn’t be as easy as I thought. Having to look over a group of at least 40 teenage boys isn’t exactly a simple role and can be difficult at times. I began to doubt myself but knew I couldn’t give up. I was selected by my coaches and God for a reason. I began to ask God to help me find the strength and leadership skills that were buried within me to help me lead the team and soon enough it began coming naturally. Though my story may be short and insignificant to some, it's supposed to show that with God’s grace and gifts, you can get over any situation or circumstance. Whether you use God’s gift of strength to get over tough times, wisdom to help others and make decisions, or no matter what it may be with God it will always be possible. All you have to do is look within yourself for those gifts with the help of God. 

Thank you and Live Jesus.