Tags
Christian, church, faith, human-rights, love, religion, spirituality, truth
It’s obvious, to me at least, that the world is in need of more Christians. Not just numbers, but people willing to live out their faith. Plenty of people fill churches across the country on Sundays. Some even go daily. But is that what Christianity is? Is that what it looks like?
I once heard it said, “Preach the Gospel at all times, when necessary, use words.” I’ve heard it many times since then, unfortunately, I can’t remember where I first heard it or who the quotes attributed to. According to a quick Google search, it might be St. Francis of Assisi.
Obviously, our message should be more than a silent ministry. However, the idea is sound. Are we acting in a way that is in line with the message of the Gospel? Do we make faith look compelling? Are we any different than those around us?
If we know that this world is not our final home (2 Cor 10:3), shouldn’t we act with greater hope or joy? Shouldn’t we want to spread that hope, joy, and love to others? Yet, often, it seems we are the most worldly.
The world desperately needs more love. Not the watered down, tarnished view touted by movies, books, and commercials. The real, sustaining love of the Creator. We are given light, let it shine through you.
Speak grace with truth. Speak truth with grace.
When you’re driving and someone cuts you off, what’s your first reaction? Instead of giving in, take a breath and say a quick prayer for that person. Even something as simple as “Heavenly Father, that person really seems to be in a hurry. I hope they get to where they need to be safely and on time”. No one may ever know you did it, but that’s not the point.
If we are to live by the Gospel’s message, which calls us to holiness, we must practice what it preaches. We must strive to improve ourselves. We may not all be as saintly as Mother Teresa, but that doesn’t mean we can forgo our need to reach out to others with grace, mercy, hope, love, and truth.
Faith should infuse all that we do. Whether fighting for the dignity of all persons from conception to natural death, trying to preserve the beauty of our planet, or longing for equality regardless of age, race, gender, or religion [or whatever else]. Even in the every day, mundane moments. We should be so consumed by affection for our Heavenly Father that we can’t help but radiate His peace and emulate the apostles.
Stand Apart 
Ben, Thank you very much for this post. This is so true and I pray that many people see this post and take it to heart. We at Our Lady of Refuge Church are forming Discipleship Groups to help each other to better live our faith as you describe. I will be sharing this post with others.
Cool, I’m glad you liked it, Mr. Whalen. Feel free to share it as often as you like. I hope the discipleship groups go well. The better we understand our faith, the better we can help others understand it.