Christianity In Action 

   “Be doers of the word and not hearers only, deluding yourself.” (James 1: 22) 

   The world is in dire need of a spiritual revival.  Complacency is common in our society, our nation and, even in some within the churches.  There is a lukewarmness in faith, a lack of sincerity in living as Christians.  Jesus’ warning to the church at Laodicea is as relevant today as it was when He spoke it; “So, because you are lukewarm, neither hot nor cold, I will spit you out of my mouth.” (Rev 3: 16).

   If there is to be such a spiritual revival, I believe it must begin with the laity.  We are the ones who must stand against the lessening and abandonment of faith.  I see evidence that some are beginning the battle, confronting the wickedness in society, and even calling religious leaders to task for not doing the same.  These are the ones who will revive Christianity and we must join them in their efforts.

   However, most of us do not have the knowledge or training for serious evangelization.  There is always the danger of sharing our own preferences, biases, or even our own misunderstandings brought about by poor catechesis.  It’s better to say nothing than to say what is in error.

   My pastor often says that he would much prefer to see a homily than to hear one.  The way we live our lives is our homily to those we meet, to our family, our friends, and perhaps most importantly, to strangers.  I believe this is the best way we can become the “doers” St. James spoke of in his letter. 

   Pope Benedict XVI wrote of the Church, “She will become small and have to start afresh more or less from the beginning.”   We can be a part of that new beginning, but it takes sincerity, devotion, and the willingness to preach our faith by the way we live it.