Early in the Book of Acts there is a story of Peter escaping from prison as the doors are miraculously opened. Several chapters later, Paul and Silas in prison have a similar experience of the doors opening but they do not escape. Paul tells the jailor, “Do no harm to yourself; we are all here.” Either in escaping and in staying the apostles evangelize. This might serve as a reminder that becoming “missionary disciples” as Pope Francis urges is not one-size-fits-all. The way one evangelizes will depend on the occasions and personalities involved. Sometimes evangelizing requires being forthright and assertive. Other times, what is called for is quiet witness. We must learn discernment to tell how to bring the gospel into each particular circumstance.
MAY242022
By Church Staff
