Putting Wind in our Sails

“As a woman about to give birth writhes and cries out in her pains, so were we in your presence, O LORD. We conceived and writhed in pain, giving birth to wind.” Is 26:18

Talk, talk, talk. All you do is talk. Most of us remember hearing words like this from friends and foe.  The Letter of James says it directly, “Faith of itself, if it does not have works, is dead.” (Ja 2:17) Faith in God must express itself in action, not just in conversation or debate.  It does little good to those in need if our conversation about the need to help the poor goes no place. In Isaiah’s language, we are windy and full of hot air!

At the same time, we should not put aside conversation altogether. Acting precipitately, while helping to respond quickly to another’s need, does little to promote long term healing. Triage is necessary when someone is in real danger, but cannot be our only response. Informed conversation about how people can work together for a society in which all eat and have adequate housing and decent jobs is more important, in the long run, than responding to crises as they develop.

Today, do something with others to build a just society.

Have you ever been engaged in advocacy or organizing for others?