“But someone will say, ‘you have faith; I have deeds.’ Show me your faith without deeds and I will show you my faith by my deeds.” James 2:18

There is a divine balancing act going on in this verse. One is proclamation alone and the other is proclamation (faith) demonstrated by actions. I think it is often easier to talk more than to act on our words.

I have a very clear memory from high school when I was volunteering at my mom’s center with psychiatric patients. There was a sweet little woman whose name was Florence. She decided I was her best friend and wanted a quick hug when I came to visit. My 14-year-old self was not very keen on that. I was willing to sit beside her, but I had my limits.

It all sounds innocent enough except from my mom’s point of view. I had started to go to church at that time and had told my mom I was a Christian. That did not impress her at all. I would try to tell her about Jesus, but she would shut down the conversation saying, “Until I can see you love and accept Florence the way Jesus would, don’t talk to me about your faith. I do not believe you.”

My mom’s favorite poem is called:

Sermons We See by Edgar Guest
I 'd rather see a sermon than hear one any day;
I'd rather one should walk with me than merely tell the way.
The eye's a better pupil and more willing than the ear,
Fine counsel is confusing, but example's always clear;
And the best of all the preachers are the men who live their creeds,
For to see good put in action is what everybody needs.

I soon can learn to do it if you'll let me see it done;
I can watch your hands in action, but your tongue too fast may run.
And the lecture you deliver may be very wise and true,
But I'd rather get my lessons by observing what you do;
For I might misunderstand you and the high advice you give,
But there's no misunderstanding how you act and how you live.

When I see a deed of kindness, I am eager to be kind.
When a weaker brother stumbles and a strong man stays behind
Just to see if he can help him, then the wish grows strong in me
To become as big and thoughtful as I know that friend to be.
And all travelers can witness that the best of guides today
Is not the one who tells them, but the one who shows the way.

One good man teaches many, men believe what they behold;
One deed of kindness noticed is worth forty that are told.
Who stands with men of honor learns to hold his honor dear,
For right living speaks a language which to everyone is clear.
Though an able speaker charms me with his eloquence, I say,
I'd rather see a sermon than to hear one, any day.

To be eloquent and able to defend our faith is a great thing, but it is worth little if our lives don’t reflect the message we are trying to share.

May God give us wisdom and a heart full of His love to care and listen to those He sends us along the way.

Dear Father,

Fill me today with Your love and tenderness Father. Give me Your eyes to see as You see and ears to hear as You hear. I pray that today, my life would reflect Your love.

In Jesus Name,

Amen