ACTIONS AND WORDS
“Therefore, do and observe all things whatsoever they tell you, but do not follow their example. For they preach but they do not practice.” – Matthew 23:3
I was trained in media to separate the message from the messenger, to be more analytical of the message without being influenced by the personality delivering the information. But sometimes, the message is the messenger himself.
St. Francis of Assisi says, “Preach the Gospel always, and when absolutely necessary, use words.” Makes perfect sense.
The messenger’s loving character, his lifestyle, the way he smiles, the way he forgives — that is the message. His life is a testimony of his faith, something the ear doesn’t have to hear, but something so loud that the heart listens and is moved to change. The loving experience we give to others will be remembered. Experience is far more powerful than whatever words people listen to and eventually forget. People, because of what they experience, will open their hearts to listen to our words.
Of course, St. Francis preached through words as well. He told people about Jesus, just as we’re commanded to do in the Bible. Carlo Lorenzo (carloflorenzo@yahoo.com)
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REFLECTION:
Do my actions reflect God’s love, joy and mercy?
Holy Spirit, rule, guide and protect my heart always so my life becomes a testimony of my faith.
St. Louis of France, pray for us.
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