In today’s first reading from Jeremiah 20, we hear the people plotting against Jeremiah. But they will not be victorious; they will not have their way. Jeremiah says, “But the Lord is with me, like a mighty champion: my persecutors will stumble, they will not triumph…Praise the Lord, for he has rescued the life of the poor from the power of the wicked!” And in the end, so it would be with Jesus.
In the Gospel reading from John 10, Jesus tells the people, “If I do not perform my Father’s works, do not believe me; but if I perform them, even if you do not believe me, believe the works, so that you may realize and understand that the Father is in me and I am in the Father.” In essence, Jesus was telling them that if they didn’t believe what He was saying, then at least believe what He was doing. Actions speak louder than words.
Doesn’t this remind you of the old saying attributed to St. Francis? Preach the Gospel at all times; when necessary, use words. So many people have shattered the faith of others because their actions don’t match up with their words. They talk a good game, but they’re not doing the Father’s works. Today, let’s make sure that we’re doing the Father’s works. And only talk about it if someone asks.
Father, forgive us for the times when we talk about you, but do not do your works. Help us today to be people of action, performing your works. Amen.
Thanks for this reflection. This gave me something to ponder.
“Preach the gospel at all times. When necessary use words.”