Preach the Gospel at all times... and when necessary use words.

This quote from Saint Francis of Assisi is pretty famous. But do we really understand what it means? Sometimes, the idea of being holy like a saint seems unattainable. Let’s face it. Not many of us will ever experience the need for that kind of heroism. We probably will never give our lives for a stranger while imprisoned in a concentration camp like Saint Maximillian Kolbe, or lead an army into battle like Saint Joan of Arc. We lead pretty dull, ordinary lives.

Or do we? C.S. Lewis said that “Hardships often prepare ordinary people for an extraordinary destiny.” So what does that mean? Are we called to something extraordinary? Can we truly be holy saints in this modern age, where the opportunity for heroism and courage is so lacking? Of course we can.

There is nothing ordinary about any of us; our lives have been sanctified by God. That means that every single one of us has the unique opportunity for heroism, for preaching the Gospel. And we do that without speaking a word. How, you ask? It’s simple.

It’s in the little ways we love others. The ways we think don’t matter or don’t make a difference. We couldn’t be more wrong. These are our opportunities for heroism, to love God and others. It’s the small sacrifices we make in our marriages, for our spouses or children, or when we’re listening to our parents. It’s the kind word or smile we give to our coworkers or classmates, or when we let someone cut in front of us in traffic or in the line at school. When we’re kind or compassionate to someone, especially the people we don’t always like.

That’s preaching the Gospel. That’s heroism. That’s loving others and loving God. And we can do that. The question is—will we? Do we understand, I mean truly understand, that we can change the world and make it a better place? And, more importantly, do we try? Do we take the time and look for opportunities to be heroic? To be a saint? To be holy?

Imagine what would happen if we did. If we preached the Gospel at all times with our actions, with love, with compassion, with mercy, and… when necessary… with words.