Fig Tree - Editorial

Editorial

Faith inspires people to turn words into lived realities

We have often heard that it's not those who cry, "Lord, Lord," or say I believe, but those who do God's will—do justice, love mercy and walk humbly, or simply love. It's important to have words, hear words and share words, and also to move beyond words. The Fig Tree shares stories of people telling about ways they love, care, serve, live, advocate for God's kin-dom.

Being made in God's image means we have the spirit, power and wisdom to act if and when we choose.

The Eastern Washington Legislative Conference each year, for far more than 40 years, is an opportunity to gather, to learn about ways to legislate change that will make lives better. Along with that, we always have the tough work of changing hearts and minds. Laws for the common good are what we advocate for and are to live by.

The white supremacist's painting a swastika on Temple Beth Shalom and defacing the Holocaust memorial drew immediate response in words expressing support and solidarity, and commitment to act on those words. We are called to embody caring and love in the face of hate.

We share news—words—from the World Council of Churches and National Council of Churches, not only about their involvements but also of what people around the world are doing—because of the inspiration of words of faith—to make lives of people, communities and among nations better. Awareness of all the ways people are acting in faith inspires us to live our faith.

Words are how we communicate, so words are expected to build dialogue, understanding, respect, relationships, reconciliation, unity in the midst of the gorgeous diversity God has given us, the diversity of God's image that permeates each of us and our many faiths, values, races and cultures. God's gift of our lives is a challenge to build the beloved community.

In the article on immigration, we are reminded of the seven themes of Catholic social teaching: life/dignity, family/community, rights/responsibilities, the poor first, dignity of work/workers, solidarity and creation care. Teachings are words we are called to make flesh.

The Legislative Conference reminds us of the many issues in the scope of our concern: budget and taxes, reforming the police and criminal justice systems, creating housing opportunities and preventing homelessness, addressing climate change and environmental health, protecting immigrants, civil and human rights, and ensuring health care and mental health access. These words name the priorities of the Faith Action Network, which offers us ways at www.fanwa.org to join in their ongoing efforts to turn words into action that makes a difference in people's lives.