“Action Not Words” by Justin March
“As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words but to live by them.”John F. Kennedy
“Cause all I want is some action, action, action, not words. Gimme action, action, action, not words.” Def Leppard from “Action Not Words”
It is Memorial Day Weekend and a good time to honor the fallen. For those that gave up their comforts at home, left their loved ones behind, and ultimately sacrificed their lives so we could enjoy the freedom of living in this great country. It is a holiday that brings great sadness as I reminisce about those that have gone before me, but it is also a holiday that brings immense joy as I relish in the memories of time spent with these amazing people.
As I sit here and write this message to you, I cannot help but think how powerful our words can be. When we say thank you, I appreciate it, sorry, I miss you, and even I love you, these short phrases can provide healing and comfort that strengthen our relationships. They can mend old wounds, they can bring us closer, and they can have a lasting impact on those around us. Yet, if we do not follow up these messages with actions that show people we mean what we say, the words lose their meaning.
It has been a tough week in our country. There are going to be people who celebrate this Memorial Day with heavy hearts and a deep sadness that comes from the senseless violence in Texas. Lives that were taken not by choice, like our heroes we celebrate on this holiday, but by hatred and mental illness. It is difficult to understand what takes place to bring people to these types of actions, and it makes me wonder where we breakdown as a nation in caring for them and getting them the help and guidance they need. I am at a loss for words, yet amongst all the tragedy, it makes me think about how important our actions become and how we need to be living out our lives as God has taught us to.
You see, we can say whatever we want to say. The media will use their words to proclaim changes needed, preach about how we need to stop the violence in our country, and to show empathy to those affected by the loss. These words may bring comfort, they may rally the troops, or they may ignite emotions, but they are only words. Until actions are taken to care for the mentally ill, laws are passed to keep our children safe, and love is spread to each and every person in this country, the violence will continue and our words will be watered down by the next atrocious tragedy.
This Memorial Day weekend, I will be pondering how my actions can coincide with the messages I send out every week. I will be asking myself some hard questions and making sure I am living my life the way God is asking me to. I will make sure I am asking Him for guidance and acting out His mission in portraying grace, forgiveness, and love. And I will be cognizant of those around me. Instead of preaching or pushing my agenda, I will merely act with kindness so they may see the light God is providing through me.
I pray you find some time this weekend to remember those that have gone before you. I pray you find joy in the memories, honor in the path paved for our freedoms, and appreciation for the life God allows us to live. And when it is all said and done, I pray that your actions speak louder than your words so others can witness the amazing work God is doing in your life. The actions are visible, meaningful, and contagious. So, let your good works be seen, not heard, and let your love bring others closer to Christ. The words may get the attention of the lost for a short while, but the works you demonstrate, when fulfilling your mission from God, will create a light that shines through you and illuminates the path that leads to His loving arms!
