We hear two key lines in the readings that shape our Connecting Point for this week: In the first reading from Acts, the apostles are told they will be Christ’s witnesses to all the ends of the earth. It’s not a request; it’s not a suggestion; it’s given to them as a statement of fact. The second, is the Great Commission that commands us to go and make disciples of all nations. If we put these together, we understand our role is to continue the work Christ confided in us, to extend the kingdom of God throughout the world.
Ok, cool, but what does that mean? Embracing The Great Commission means taking the Good News to the people. So often I listen to people (mostly Catholics) complain about how people aren’t coming back to church the way they used to, and they continue asking questions like, “what can we do to get people back in the pews?” But the Great Commission does not say “figure out ways to get people to come to you.” Rather, it begins with the simplest word, go. Being a witness of Christ and making disciples is not so much about guilting people into coming to Mass, but rather about helping others understand the love of God where they are through every thought and interaction we have.
We know the greatest commandment is to love God and love others. We love others by showing kindness, compassion, and empathy, whether we think someone deserves it or not. Most of us interact with people every day in person; but also virtually through text messages, email, and social media. Do our actions and responses show we are witnesses of Christ, or are they showing we’re annoyed and bothered?
I often find myself so caught up in the busy day-to-day to-do lists and projects that need to get done, that I don’t always respond in a way that reflects my role as a witness of Christ. Let’s make a more concerted effort to show love, compassion, kindness, and patience in every encounter, text message, email, and social media comment. In doing so, we put ourselves on the path to becoming better disciples and witnesses of Christ and his teachings.
– Matt Kush
FOP Director of Engagement
