Some of you may not know this, but in the early Church, following Jesus was known as “The Way.” Saint Paul uses this term, and it also appears in the Acts of the Apostles.
It’s a beautifully simple and profound reminder to us that following Jesus doesn’t mean we just believe certain things. It’s more than that — it’s a way of life. And, not just a way of life, but the way of life.
“Thomas said to him, “Master, we do not know where you are going; how can we know the way?” Jesus said to him, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” John 14:5-6
In today’s world, it’s getting more and more difficult to convince someone of your beliefs using logic or argument, or even friendly discussion. But, one thing that hasn’t changed is the infectiousness of the joy in living for Christ. A face that radiates the love of Christ can change the world.
Our Church needs more people who provide a living witness to the hope and joy that comes with following Christ. To put it another way, we need more smiling faces in Church.