Not all of us have the benefit of a star to lead us to Jesus as did the Wise Men, but God most often uses other people to do so. Andrew brought his brother Peter to Jesus after spending a day with him. Some years ago, a woman named Antonella, through her quiet, reasoned conversations with a Muslim was instrumental in his asking to be baptized a Catholic. Elizabeth Ann Bailey Seton, while in Italy caring for her husband who suffered from tuberculosis, was so impressed, not only with the beautiful churches and art work she saw, but also by the simple piety of the people, that she left her Episcopal church to become a Roman Catholic. For this her family shunned her, but her love for Jesus and the desire to share him with others led her to take even more risks. She accepted an invitation from the president of St. Mary's College to open a school in Baltimore. If this wasn't enough, she took a further step and founded the Sisters of Charity who still continue to bring others to Jesus through education.
None of us, though anything is possible, would dream of being capable of such dramatic influences on others, but in our own quiet ways, by listening, by thoughtful words and deeds of kindness, we can give others a glimmer or Jesus and spark their desire to follow him more closely. Our baptisms commissioned us to be evangelizers; others have taken up the mission, why can't we?
Bro. Rene
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