There was an interview with acclaimed writer Karen Armstrong in the Charlotte Observer sometime back. She is a theologian who writes about the role of religion in the modern world. In the interview, she was asked about a statement she made related to atheism. The question was posed, “You say religion is hard work. Are nonbelievers lazy?

Her answer was thoughtful. She responded, “No. What I am implying is that nonbelievers can’t comment on faith unless they practice it, because none of our doctrines or beliefs make sense unless they are translated into practical action.”

Armstrong goes on to compare knowledge about religion to knowledge about dancing or swimming or driving a car. You can’t learn to do those things simply by reading a book. They must be practiced. And the more they are practiced, the more they are enjoyed.

Each of us is in a different place on the journey of faith. Some of us are struggling to believe at all. Others feel secure and strong in what they believe. Most of us are somewhere in between. But I have to believe that most of us want to grow. Today, let us each seek to deepen our faith by finding ways to put it into practice:

Give to someone in need. Forgive someone who has hurt you. Listen to someone who is lonely. Use your skills within a ministry. Share your hope with someone on the edge of despair. Take actions that lead to peace and justice.

Let us pray: Loving God, there are times when it is difficult to believe. There are times when the world seems to be unraveling and our lives are turned upside down. We want to believe. We want desperately to have a deep faith that gives our life meaning and hope. Help us to practice – over and over – the central tenants of our faith. We remember today the words of St. Francis, that it is in giving that we receive. Amen.

Today’s message was written by Rev. Dr. Roger Kunkel, founder of Dial Hope.

Some years ago, a ten-year-old boy named Johnny was sitting alone on a park bench one afternoon. It was a beautiful spring day and Johnny was watching some other kids play baseball. An older man happened by, saw Johnny sitting there, and sat down beside him. They entered into conversation. They talked about the gorgeous weather, sports, their families. Finally, the older man said, “Johnny, I want to ask you a question. If you had three wishes, what would you wish for?” Johnny thought for a moment and then said, “First, I would wish for peace and happiness in the world. Second, I would wish everybody would join a church. And third, I would wish that my best friend Billy, who is blind, would be able to see. That’s what I would wish for.”

The older man seemed amazed by little Johnny’s answer, and with a look of perplexity, he said goodbye and walked away. Johnny didn’t understand why the man was confused by the answer. He sat there for a moment, and then picked up his crutches and hobbled home! Now you know where Johnny got that gracious, loving spirit, don’t you? He got it from Jesus. He got it from the one who went to the cross for you and me. On the cross, God showed us how much he loved us and how much he wants us to love one another. Faith, hope, love – that’s what the cross is about. Whether you are receiving chemotherapy, radiation, facing the loss of a loved one, whether you are calling from Baghdad, whether you are depressed and lonely, whether you are a teenager or a child, remember – God loves you! And you are blessed to be a blessing to others.

Let us pray: Loving God, who has given us a mentor and example of living in Jesus, we pray that you will give us the courage and will to see more clearly, love more dearly, and follow more nearly the Christ, day by day. Today, may we reflect the image and spirit of Jesus who was called “The one for others” because he sought to serve rather than be served. Through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.