Teaching With Authority

As Marists, whether in the classroom, or in the market place, whether vowed, or lay, we are called to be teachers, to bring the knowledge and love of Jesus to all who cross our paths, especially the most neglected and needy youth.  We cannot evade this obligation, or if we do, we must drop out of the Marist World.
Jesus wowed the crowds in Capernaum because "he taught as "one having authority, not as the scribes."  Jesus had no teaching degree, yet he commanded attention, convinced and persuaded without imposing, and won hearts both by his words, but also by his actions.  He showed his message, he lived his message.
I met a very devout man this morning who was on his way to a new job as a car salesman.  We joked about the reputation of such people.  Immediately, however, he said that he could not be "phony" or lead people on dishonestly, and that his faith would have to permeate his dealings with prospective buyers.  I would say, he would "sell as one having authority", he would be real and show people that he cared about them, their purchase and their satisfaction.  Again and again, it is the old axiom: "Actions speak louder than words."  Lord, help me to live what I believe and what I say.  Save me from doing anything less.
Bro. Rene