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Who are you?
“Preach the gospel at all times and when necessary use words”.
It is surprising to discover that this famous phrase, attributed to St. Francis of Assisi, is not based in reality. There is no evidence of Francis saying or writing these words. There are, however, plenty of writers who say it is impossible to preach the gospel unless words are spoken out loud. This seems a narrow view.
Wherever the phrase about preaching without using words came from it upholds conventional wisdom that actions and behavior can speak louder and more honestly than words. Ideally, the words and the actions match.
Words can be cheap. Think of the politician who espouses family values in speech after speech only to turn up behaving in a way that does not model family values. Think of the matriarch or patriarch of a family who displays a smiling face in public endearing themselves to others only to find out their children are neglected or abused. The list is long of those who speak one way and act another.
Words are important. What we say makes a difference, but our behavior speaks volumes.Today's readings are full of words that indicate action. Isiah writes of healing, proclaiming and releasing. Paul reminds us to “Test everything; retain what is good. Refrain from every kind of evil”. He adds, “Rejoice always. Pray without ceasing,” and “Do not quench the Spirit. In all circumstances give thanks”. These are all actions.
John the Baptist, wandering the desert, living an austere life, preaches but he also acts, baptizing. He is preparing the way of the Lord by his words and with his actions.
He is asked, “Who are you?” He responds by saying he is a “voice of one crying out in the desert." He is a teacher, a preacher, preparing those who will isten for the coming of one far greater than himself. He also offers an experience that changes lives. He couples words with action.
As we enter the final week of Advent it is worthwhile to think about words and actions. Preaching the gospel through speaking the words of the scripture writers is good but if it is not backed up with acts of kindness, inclusiveness of all God’s children, standing against evil, and a constant testing and awareness of what is happening then it falls short.
The question asked of John, “Who are you?” is a question to ask ourselves. Who am I as I approach this feast of the birth of Jesus?
Advent blessings,
Anne
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