The cycle of evangelization...something that is little understood among Catholics and more so among Evangelicals, though both groups hobble along in the attempt. But if we take a good look at the reason for why we are here on earth, besides being in preparation for heaven, is to bring as many people with us as possible. It is part of our preparation.
Look at it this way, we want to grow in our love for Jesus Christ and the Holy Trinity, don't we? I'm sure you do. To do that requires full commitment. It is a love between God and us that has all the earmarks of a wild holy love affair. One who is madly in love gives of Himself entirely for the other; the other responds in kind with the same love and devotion. So when One who gives of Himself does not receive this love in return, we know there is a problem. For instance, how many of you who are in love are ashamed of your spouse, your beloved? Anyone? I didn't think so. Then, why are we ashamed of the Gospel of Jesus? Is it shame in him, or fear of looking or being stupid? We are going to have to get over this somehow. I have a few suggestions.
One, fall in love with Jesus so as to become a fool for Jesus. I know this sounds harsh, or even impossible to want this, but please bear with me. When we become self-conscious of how we look or behave in the eyes of others, we are frozen in fear. We cease to love Christ. We prefer the vanity of looking good to others who couldn't care less in comparison to the One who died for our love. That simple.
Two, get equipped. There are wonderful websites that have information that can aid you in your discipleship. One such site is ChristLife, a Catholic lay apostolate that specializes in evangelizing and equipping Catholics the New Evangelization. The link provided is their Fall Newsletter. Check it out.
Three, realize that you have been graced by Jesus to do this work. It's in your Catholic DNA. Be bold, work and live out what God has worked and given you. You'll find the reason for your devotion, your prayers, your Mass assistance, your Scripture and Catechetical study all make sense. When you realize that your love of God is made complete in your love of neighbor in evangelization, you will find yourself complete.
Carry on, soldiers...be the fool you were meant to be...the fool Christ was for you and the Father. Pax.
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