“When you pray, move your feet.” – African Proverb
Action isn’t the end purpose of faith, prayer, generosity or mindfulness. And yet …. it sure seems like it is, or might be? We often put the focus on the end result, what the action or movement accomplishes. It’s at the root of our materialist culture based upon the value of “you are what you do” and “pick yourself up by your bootstraps.” But in faith, action is merely another part of the process. Movement is an extension of what is already happening within and among us. It’s the outflow of gratitude, grace and gumption stirring within us by faith. In this way action isn’t the purpose, but rather a natural consequence. It’s like responding “thank you” after we’re greeted, gifted or graced by someone else.
Be mindful of what is happening within y0u. Be attentive to what the Spirit of God is maybe doing with us, whispering to you, or eliciting within you. And then pray with your feet. Or to make it more concrete today, pray with a phone call, a greeting card, post card or some sort of direct communication (emails, texts, Facebook and tweets don’t count). Who as been part of what’s happening with you these days? Who is hurting around you? Who is your circle of influence is struggling with depression, fear, anxiety or loneliness? Send them a card. Call them. Drop by and visit them. Walk down the hallway at work and say hi to them.