(The disciples) departed and went through the villages, bringing the good news and curing diseases everywhere. (Luke 9:6) “Preach the gospel always; when necessary, use words.” This advice, often attributed to St. Francis, is a favorite of many Disciples. We like it because it reminds us of the truth that actions speak louder than words. It affirms our pragmatic, hands-on mission
approach to being the Good News of Jesus Christ with our neighbors near and far. We like it, because by and large, we Disciples don’t much like to talk about our faith. Another look at the saying, though, reveals that it is also telling us: sometimes, it is, in fact, necessary – to use words. In Luke 9, Jesus sends out the disciples “to proclaim the kingdom of God and to heal.” The healing and other good works of the disciples need interpretation through proclamation. The disciples are not just any magic workers or good-deed-doers. They are inspired to their good works because they are followers of Jesus, who came to show the reign of God at hand. Describing God’s reign of justice and peace goes hand in hand with healing. Sometimes it helps to say why we love our neighbor. Our Disciples mission is “to be and to share the good news of Jesus Christ.” Many times the “being” part is easier than the “sharing” part. Yet we are called to do both: to communicate in word and in deed the saving love of God through Jesus Christ.
Prayer: Dear God, help me to find the words to express my love for you. May my acts of “being” the good news inspire authentic opportunities to “share” the good news in word as well as in deed.
AMEN
Sharon Watkins serves as General Minister and President of the
Christian Church (Disciples of Christ)