1 Corinthians 12:1-11 NKJV
12 Now concerning spiritual gifts, brethren, I do not want you to be ignorant: 2 You know that you were Gentiles, carried away to these dumb idols, however you were led. 3 Therefore I make known to you that no one speaking by the Spirit of God calls Jesus accursed, and no one can say that Jesus is Lord except by the Holy Spirit.
4 There are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. 5 There are differences of ministries, but the same Lord. 6 And there are diversities of activities, but it is the same God who works all in all. 7 But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to each one for the profit of all: 8 for to one is given the word of wisdom through the Spirit, to another the word of knowledge through the same Spirit, 9 to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healings by the same Spirit, 10 to another the working of miracles, to another prophecy, to another discerning of spirits, to another different kinds of tongues, to another the interpretation of tongues. 11 But one and the same Spirit works all these things, distributing to each one individually as He wills.
Today is Halloween and Reformation Day, and our Bible passage reminds us of the gifts of the Spirit bestowed upon believers. Halloween is a day associated with costumes, candy, and the macabre, while Reformation Day commemorates a pivotal moment in Christian history when Martin Luther, guided by the Holy Spirit, boldly stood against the darkness of error and superstition. In verse 4, Paul writes, “There are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit.” These words remind us that the Holy Spirit equips us with unique gifts and talents for the edification of the Church. The Reformation itself was a testament to the diversity of gifts within the body of Christ, as various Reformers contributed their talents to advance the Gospel.
While Halloween may symbolize darkness and the unknown, the gifts of the Holy Spirit illuminate our path and empower us to navigate the challenges of our time with discernment and confidence. Also, we remember that the Reformers, inspired by the Holy Spirit, courageously faced the darkness of their era, striving to restore the light of the Gospel. Similarly, we are to use the gifts God has given us to share the Good News, bringing His light to a world in need.
Thus, on this day, we not only reflect on the past but also recognize the ongoing work of the Holy Spirit in our lives and in the Church. We embrace our God-given gifts, share the Gospel boldly, and are lights in the world, dispelling the darkness that surrounds us. In Christ’s name, we are called to bring hope, truth, and salvation to a world in need, just as the Reformers did in their time. Through the gifts of the Spirit, we can be agents of transformation, shining the light of Christ on this unique day of Halloween and Reformation, and every day that follows. Christ’s Spirit enlightens us to reflect His light. Let us pray: Almighty God, through the preaching of your servants, the blessed Reformers, you caused the light of the Gospel to shine forth. Grant that we who know its saving power may faithfully guard and defend it against all enemies and joyfully proclaim it to the salvation of souls and the glory of your holy name; through your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.