August 6 ~ Ephesians 4:14-16
We must stop acting like children. We must not let deceitful people trick us by their false teachings, which are like winds that toss us around from place to place. Love should always make us tell the truth. Then we will grow in every way and be more like Christ, the head of the body. Christ holds it together and makes all of its parts work perfectly, as it grows and becomes strong because of love.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
“There is nothing to be against…just keep concentrating on the BIG THING you are for!” – Richard Rohr, Center for Action and Contemplation
Richard Rohr, a Franciscan friar, ecumenical teacher, and author often cites the writings of St. Francis of Assisi. Like many others, he attributes a quote to St. Francis that says, “Preach the Gospel at all times. When necessary, use words.” This is a lovely sentiment; however, some fact checking indicates that the closest St. Francis got to saying this was…“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.”
I read about these Friars and the quotes today in an editorial opinion on the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette “Religion” pages. The writer, Paul Prather, pastor of Bethesda Church in Sterling, KY, cites Rohr and his work as he talks about how we are to be continually striving to demonstrate the love and truths of Christ Jesus in our daily living. He points out that St. Francis of Assisi did not get bogged down in the dogma and “laws” of certain churches or religious leaders. He simply tried to emulate Jesus. And so should we.
One of the most poignant thoughts of Prather’s essay was the suggestion that Christians should not be obsessed with all the things they are against. Isn’t that where we seem to be these days? Those who are against certain people or groups are raising their hands to the sky (or their fists) and declaring they will create a “church” that is “pure.” Those who wish to discriminate, disparage, and declare themselves to be more devout and dutiful than the next guy clearly demonstrate otherwise.
In Galatians 3:28-29, Paul tells us that…“Faith in Christ Jesus is what makes each of you equal with each other, whether you are a Jew or a Greek, a slave or a free person, a man or a woman. So if you belong to Christ, you are now part of Abraham’s family, and you will be given what God has promised.” I’m honestly not sure what part of this passage so many “Christians” missed! The love and fellowship of Jesus Christ is offered equally to everyone!
Regardless of who said it – or how it was said, I really like the admonition to “Preach the Gospel at all times, and use words when necessary.” I am also drawn to the idea that we start living in a way that shows others all the things that Jesus is for, rather than rail about what we are against. As the old hymn says, “They will know us by our Love.” What – and WHO are you showing the world these days? It is time for us to grow up – and shift our attitudes and actions. It is time to be about the Big Thing we are for and share the love and truth of Jesus to all people – in all things. Alleluia!
©2022 Debbie Robus
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