Faith in action

By Suelin Novarro

Each one of us is called to holiness and to mission. ‘Faith in Action’ emphasises the importance of the relationship between holiness and mission within the Catholic Church. This concept highlights how living out one’s faith authentically can lead to active participation in the Church’s mission to evangelise and serve others. The adage that ‘You will know what to do when you get there’ holds some weight to it. What manner of faith do we need to be led by the Holy Spirit? When God has given us the instruction to set out on our journey, filled with his Spirit, He never leaves us. We are only human, and uncertainty sets in, and we find ourselves asking “Is this the right path?” or “Is this where I am supposed to be?” This is where our faith comes into play, because “Faith is the assurance of what we hope for, being certain of what we cannot see” (Heb 11:1). When we set out in faith, filled and led by the Holy Spirit, God provides the guidance we need.

Acts 8:26-40 tells the story of Philip and the Ethiopian eunuch. Following a divine instruction from an angel, Philip travels to a desert road leading from Jerusalem to Gaza. There, he encounters the eunuch, an important official reading from the book of Isaiah but struggling to understand it. The Holy Spirit prompts Philip to approach him, and the eunuch expresses his need for guidance. Philip explains the Scripture and shares the good news about Jesus. As they travel, they come across water, and the eunuch asks to be baptised. Philip baptises him, and afterward, the Spirit of the Lord carries Philip away. The eunuch continued his journey, rejoicing and Philip went about spreading the Gospel in other towns. This beautiful scripture is how we are called to holiness and to mission and to truly put our faith into action just as Philip did.

When God nudges us to embark on a new path whether it is a new job, a ministry opportunity, or a personal challenge, we are called to respond with courage and faith. This call to action is a personal invitation to trust that the Holy Spirit will guide us along the way. So, what must we do? Discern and take that first step, trusting that we are equipped to handle whatever comes next. This is where faith becomes action, taking that step forward without knowing the entire plan, but trusting that God has entrusted each of us with a specific role in fulfilling His ultimate purpose no matter how small or insignificant it may seem to us. What good is it to profess that we believe and have faith but do no good works to every one of God’s creation and reflecting God’s love in every action?

The Book of James says that faith without works is dead. So, while yes, our faith is essential for salvation, it must be active and expressed through good works. The Church teaches that faith and works go hand in hand and that true faith naturally leads to a life of love and service. By putting faith in action, we become instruments of God’s grace in this world which is a manifestation of His undying love for us all.

Let’s reflect on these questions and move our faith into action.

1. How can we embrace the teachings of Jesus by showing love, mercy and compassion in our everyday lives?

2. How can we serve those in need?

3. How can we advocate for the most vulnerable in our communities?

4. What are some ways to revitalise our faith and strengthen our relationship with God?

5. How can we continue to build connections with people and navigate our daily lives by being witnesses of God’s love?

James 2:26, “So, just as the body is dead without its spirit, so faith, without deeds, is also dead.”