Daily Bread

The scripture says, ‘No one who believes in him will be put to shame.’ For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek; the same Lord is Lord of all and is generous to all who call on him. For, ‘Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved.’

But how are they to call on one in whom they have not believed? And how are they to believe in one of whom they have never heard? And how are they to hear without someone to proclaim him? And how are they to proclaim him unless they are sent? As it is written, ‘How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!’

Paul, in his letter to the church in Rome, references the Old Testament prophet Isaiah (Chapters 28 and 52 if you want to go and look them up) backing up his message that everyone can find their salvation in God — i.e. have their lives transformed by God. Yet, Paul is also practical, for it is all very well having the best 'product' in the world, but if you do not let people know about it and are unable deliver it to them, then it is a bit pointless!

In churchy terms we are all called to a ministry that is both proclamation and presence. Proclamation is telling other people 'about' Jesus and Presence is 'being' Jesus to others — and, if we want to see others encounter God and be sustained in that encounter, then we need both. We need to proclaim that Jesus Christ is the way to God, and also live it out in our daily lives.

We can sometimes feel as if the calling to be an evangelist or missionary is a high calling, preserved for inspired, faith-filled, mighty warriors for Christ! Yet, you are called to be an agent or ambassador for Jesus right where you are, with the people you mix with — your family, friends, colleagues, acquaintances, and the strangers you meet and encounter.

I am reminded of the poem by Teresa of Avila (1515–1582):

Christ has no body but yours,
No hands, no feet on earth but yours,
Yours are the eyes with which he looks with compassion on this world,
Yours are the feet with which he walks to do good,
Yours are the hands, with which he blesses all the world.
Yours are the hands, yours are the feet,
Yours are the eyes, you are his body.

Holy God
Thank you that you have called me to be your child.
May I be a blessing to all I meet,
remembering to proclaim Jesus as my Saviour,
and to do the good works you have prepared for me to walk in.
Today, help me be Jesus to all I encounter
and to be your voice, your eyes, your hands, and your feet.
Amen