First believe and be justified; and second, confess with your mouth, that is, speak out and about what you confess — that Jesus is Lord and was raised from the dead — and so be saved.
That’s it!
And the truth is that everyone, both Jew and Greek, so justified and saved are equal; between them “there is no distinction.”
And the first disciples, thus called the Twelve Apostles were eventually sent to preach that Good News, and to draw others to the Christ.
But for us, the real good news is that we, too, have been called in baptism and also sent to preach the Good News.
And to be sure, although it might involve the use of our mouth, too, especially as we open our mouths in praise thereby acknowledging our belief and expressing out confession of faith.
To be sure, the loudest and most profound confession of our faith will be through our actions. That is, how we live our lives.
As St. Francis has been quoted, or at least it is attributed to him, these words, “Preach the Gospel at all times. When necessary use words.”
Or to put it another even more common way, “Actions speak louder than words.”
For Paul to focus on the mouth makes some sense, especially if the goal is to speak aloud to others to inform them and share with them the Good News of the Gospel of Jesus the Christ.
But the feet? Why the feet?
And Paul says and quotes what was written, “How beautiful are the feet of those who bring the Good News!”
This writer is not certain, but perhaps that is even the inspiration behind the advertising of Nike shoes —
Yes! Focused on the feet — Just do it!”
Back to the feet.
Yes! Get out there and do it! Say, preach, live, love it!
As you are called, now you are sent!
Be the disciples and the apostles you have been called to be and to become, more and more each day!
Father Perry Dean Leiker is the 13th pastor of St. Bernard Catholic Church. Reach him at (323) 255-6142. Email Father Perry at pleiker@stbernard-church.com.
