Actions Speak Louder Than Words

Had a good reminder of a basic evangelization principle today. At a wedding of friends, held at my beautiful church, the priest explained to the couple that it is what they do, and not so much what they say, that will be a powerful witness to our world of marriage as God intended it. Love and committment are inseparable, he said, and it is in the dailyness of our lives that this truth is refined and revealed. With all the broken marriages in our world, the example of a solid, strong marriage lived deliberately will stand out. When we live counter-culturally, people do take notice.

What a wonderful reflection for all of us. I don't think any of us really know just how much of an impact we have on others by simply trying to live a good Christian life. We may struggle much, we may fail often, we may even feel like we are a rather poor excuse for a Christian. And yet, if we strive for holiness and grow in love, we will make an impression on someone, whether we know it or not. Therefore, it is not in our being perfect or knowledgeable, but in our being faithful that will speak volumes to the world.

Preach the Gospel always, use words if necessary.