When Jesus sent the Twelve to proclaim the Kingdom of God, he told them not to take anything with them, "no walking stick, sack, nor food, nor money." (Lk 9:1-2) We might ask how he expected them to survive. But he did give them authority over demons and the power to cure diseases. With these they would win the confidence of their hearers, build relationships with them and be able to evangelize them effectively. In return. some of these would provide lodging and food. Their actions enabled them to proclaim the Kingdom.
In like manner, St. Vincent de Paul, whose memorial we observe today, found that words were not enough; he was chaplain of galley slaves, and went into the bowls of the ships to bring food and medicine to the men. He organized other priests and lay people to address the needs of the poor. His presence and gestures of kindness won hearts: he proclaimed the kingdom by deed as well as by word. As Christians, and especially as Marists, we are called to do the same.
Bro. Rene
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