By Roxane B. Salonen

Memorial of Saint Francis Xavier

I’d been writing for a few decades by the time I was asked to chaperone my daughter’s Catholic high school trip to Washington, D.C., for the annual March for Life, and my words were beginning to seem…empty.

I knew they mattered. But something about that experience prompted me. “I don’t want to just write about the things that move me. I want to do something about them.”

So, when my bus buddy, Ann, suggested we start praying at our state’s only abortion facility, located in the heart of our city, my heart was ready. We’ve been doing this together, weekly, ever since, for 12 years.

I was adamant in those early days. “I don’t want this to be another writing project. I want to use my body, my being, to convey the love of Christ; to stand in his stead, not influencing people through my words, but through my demeanor and charity.”

That was my plan, but God had other plans. Each week when I’d gather with the other sidewalk advocates, God would give me a powerful story. Eventually, I could no longer not write about what was happening there in the place where life and death meet each week. I pitched the idea of a pro-life column detailing these encounters to the editor of my diocesan newspaper, and he said, “Let’s do it!”

St. Francis Xavier, whom we celebrate today, once said, “The true measure of our faith is in our works, not just our words,” and I agree. But I’ve learned that sometimes, God has us employ both to help accomplish his mission on earth.

I still consider my mere presence the most important aspect of this ministry, but when God gives me a story, especially showing his glory, I am reminded that it’s his agenda, not mine.

Prayer:

Dear Lord, help me to discern when you want me to open my mouth, when you want me simply to act, and when you want me to do both. I know I can definitively rely on you to aptly guide me to your purpose for me each day.

Call to Action:

What “work” can you do today to love someone in your life who is low on reserves? It could be as simple as a smile, a hug, or an unexpected gesture of kindness. Give it a try, without words, and see how it goes!

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