Too Sweet for Words
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Over the past few years, we have heard the term “The New Evangelization” repeatedly. In the hearts of most Christians, this word suggests images of street-corner preachers, people knocking on their neighbors’ doors, or TV preachers screaming.
But what does it really mean? Is this a word to fear?
“Evangelization” put in its simplest terms means: “means bringing the Good News of Jesus into every human situation and seeking to convert individuals and society by the divine power of the Gospel itself. At its essence are the proclamation of salvation in Jesus Christ and the response of a person in faith, which are both works of the Spirit of God” (from the USCCB website).
I have often heard St. Francis of Assisi’s words: “Preach the Gospel at all times. Use words if necessary.” Many have used it as an excuse to simply live a good life. “After all,” the thinking goes, “as long as I am living a good, Christian life, I will be in obedience to the call to evangelize.”
The problem is, St. Francis never said those words. The closest thing to it are words found in the rule for his order (Rule 1221, Chapter XII): “No brother should preach contrary to the form and regulations of the holy Church nor unless he has been permitted by his minister … All the Friars … should preach by their deeds.” In other words, our actions need to correspond with our words.
In the words of Jesus, we are to “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, to the close of the age.” (Matthew 28:19)
Jesus’ words require active service, yes, but also speaking the words of truth from the Gospel. Our words AND our actions must preach Jesus! Not just any “Jesus,” either. The Jesus of the Bible: born of a virgin, miracle worker, preacher of the Kingdom of God, died, rose again, and ascended into heaven. The most marvelous thing is that the words are right there for us!
As we enter into another year, may our lips and our lives preach Jesus to all we encounter. For then, we will truly be evangelists!
Joni grew up on a farm in Kansas. She is a wife and mother who has been involved in various ministries from small towns to inner cities. After a number of years in Protestant ministry, she, her husband, and their children were received into the Catholic Church in 2007. She now resides in northeast Ohio, where she is private piano instructor. She is involved in her home parish working with music ministry. She has been blogging since 2006.
