Monday 01 December 2008

Background

Any Scot will tell you that St Andrew's Day was yesterday, butthe Church transfers the commemoration to today so as to do justiceboth to Advent Sunday and to Saint Andrew.

Traditionally, this day is a time to pray about overseas missions,but in the 21st century both 'overseas' and 'mission' are words tobe queried in the context of the Church. Not only do we live in areligiously plural society 'at home', but today, 'mission' meansmore than 'preaching' - or at least, more than words. Indeed, SaintFrancis of Assisi (a 13th century monk) told his companions to"Preach the gospel: use words if you have to". Actions really dospeak louder than words.

Today is also the 20th anniversary of World Aids Day. In two decades the public attitude to peoplewith HIV/AIDS has changed, not least thanks to Princess Diana,whose actions in this area spoke volumes. I am sure that today shewould have been calling for greater urgency in tackling thepandemic.

Today's reading suggests that such urgency is an integral part ofthe gospel (meaning good news): "at once" runs through the storylike a refrain. However, the Church often seems content withsitting on its hands and waiting for 'the right time'.

Although Advent is a 'waiting time', it should always be 'waitingwith a purpose' - getting ready, not doing nothing; preparing, notjust hanging around.

To Ponder

What 'actions' of yours could be considered ameans of preaching the gospel?

When did you last see the Church sitting on itshands? Did the right time ever come?