How can we evangelize in public?
Catechism Meditation:
Lay people also fulfill their prophetic mission by evangelization, “that is, the proclamation of Christ by word and the testimony of life.” For lay people, “this evangelization . . . acquires a specific property and peculiar efficacy because it is accomplished in the ordinary circumstances of the world.” ―No. 905
REFLECTION. The Church has always been clear about the importance of evangelization. In the Great Commission, Jesus tells his disciples to “go and make disciples of all nations” (Mt 28:19). This commission was not just for the first disciples, but for all Christians. In order for the Church to fulfill its mission, evangelization must be its priority. It is how the Good News of Jesus Christ is spread throughout the world. It is how people come to know Christ and His saving love. As Christians, we are called to share our faith with others. This is not always easy, but when we share our faith, we are giving others the opportunity to know Jesus Christ and enter the hope of eternal life. We are also helping to build up the body of Christ.
Sharing our faith can be done in many ways. We can share our testimony of how Jesus has changed our life. We can invite others to read the New Testament, to go to church or to a Bible study. We can simply be a good example to those around us. It is important to remember that we are not responsible for whether or not someone else accepts Jesus Christ and follows Him. We are only responsible for sharing the Gospel message through our lives. Let us be certain that the Holy Spirit will work in that person’s heart through our testimony.
In today’s society, talking about your faith can be seen as offensive and it’s a real challenge to spread the Gospel. Here are some little ways to spread your Catholic faith in public: (1) Bless yourself and say grace before meals in a restaurant. (2) Wear a scapular or religious medal. (3) Wear a religious-themed t-shirt. (4) Bless yourself when you pass a Catholic Church. (5) Bless yourself if you hear someone take the Lord’s Name in vain.
Do not be afraid to proclaim the Good News of God’s love and salvation in Jesus Christ. Pray for guidance and wisdom. Ask the Holy Spirit to give you the words to say. And trust that God will use you to reach others for His glory and their salvation. As St. John Vianney put it, “Do not try to please everybody. Try to please God, the angels, and the saints – they are your public.”
PRAYER. God, our Father, help me grow in confidence to proclaim the Gospel and boldly witness to the saving grace of your Son, Jesus Christ.
Timeless Wisdom Quote:
“The first word of Jesus in the Gospel was ‘come’; the last word of Jesus in the Gospel was ‘go’.” ― Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen