This Week from Mitch

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

I have been reading, albeit slowly, and mainly on airplanes, Hemingway's "A Moveable Feast." I have come to admire his descriptions, rhythm, and plain writing style that conveys so much so simply. Perhaps I am turning into a grumpy old man (my taste in literature suggests as much) because, as I read, I have found myself lamenting the loss of language skills, which seem to have been replaced by instant pictures and weak AI writing. Who needs to describe anything when you can now take a picture, post it, and have an AI writing tool write the caption? Why do we need to use words to describe taste, smell, and appearance when we can take a picture of a dish at our table and simply post, "yum”? In truth, it makes me grumpy because I believe words and language matter.

This week is Trinity Sunday. Once again, we will have a baptism, this time baptizing young Charlie Rasmussen. We will also hear our new Deacon Adam Steele preach the gospel. In particular, we will hear the words, "Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit." This commandment from Jesus raises a question. How do we make disciples? The first way is through our actions. We are called to live out the gospel of Christ in our lives. The second way is through our words. How do we talk about our faith, our Lord, and our various callings?

In the late 70's, an unedited hallmark-style quote of St. Francis was published. It attributed the words "Preach the gospel always, and if necessary, use words" to Francis. Since then, this quote has been used countless times in sermons to demonstrate the need for good and right action. Sadly, it has also been used as an excuse not to talk about faith. Even more egregious is the fact that St. Francis never said anything close to it. It was made up, totally fake. The truth lies in both. Works and words. How do we live the Gospel, and how do we talk about our faith?

I believe in a loving God, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit who desires each of us to embrace grace and mercy. I believe that my faith compels me to share a story of love. It is a love that began before time existed and will exist long after my time is over. It is a love that sends us out into the world to do our best for the Kingdom of God. I believe in Jesus Christ, who, as our funeral liturgy says, is my friend and not a stranger. Last week, I asked folks to share about a personal hero of the faith. Thank you to folks who sent me answers; reading them was a blessing. Today, I wonder what you believe? I also encourage you to practice speaking about that belief. Making disciples absolutely depends on the words we use and the actions we live out.

Peace,

Mitch