Spiritual Works of Mercy: Instruct the Ignorant

Now don’t get it wrong—“ignorant” does not mean “stupid” or “unintelligent”.  It simply means lacking in knowledge in a particular area. Given that definition, even the most highly educated professor in one of the finest universities can be ignorant in spiritual matters.

  Each one of us is well-instructed in some areas and ignorant in others. That’s why we continue to study and learn the Christian faith. In this spiritual work of mercy, we are called to share what we have learned with those who may not have learned it yet.

  In this wonderful time in history we have more opportunities to learn about God the Father, Jesus, the Holy Spirit, the Church, Scripture, etc. than at any time in the past. There are books, homilies, teachings, the media, the internet, podcasts, radio, CDs, etc.  During our lifetime we will avail ourselves of only a fraction of what is out there. Each of us received what we have learned from different sources. Therefore, we each have knowledge and insight that may be helpful for someone else.

  The Holy Spirit prompts us when He wants us to share what we have learned with others. Sometimes this can be one on one; other times with a group. We must never think that we are not smart enough or knowledgeable enough to share with others. Faith is a gift, not something that is learned. Everyone who has the ability to understand the Gospel is capable of passing on spiritual truths to others.

  There are also more formal ways of sharing the faith with others such as teaching children, adult education, men’s or women’s sharing groups, or Bible Study. In the Life in the Spirit Seminars ordinary people give the talks and witness to what God has done in their lives.

  In Matthew 28:19-20, the Apostles are instructed by Jesus to “go…make disciples of all the nations….Teach them to carry out everything I have commanded you.”   We are not all called to be bishops or priests, but we are all called to disciple those God has put in our paths, such as children, grandchildren, nieces or nephews.

  Jesus said: Go into the whole world and proclaim the good news to all creation. This was spoken to eleven apostles, but it’s His Word for all Christians as well.

  St. Paul tells St. Timothy in 2 Tim 3:16 that All Scripture is inspired of God and is useful for teaching—for reproof, correction, and training in holiness… .  It’s a spiritual work of mercy to share God’s Word with others, whether formally teaching children, facilitating a Bible Study, or informally, in just talking with someone.

  In St. Paul’s letter to Titus he instructs the older women to: teach the younger women to love their husbands and children, to be sensible, chaste, busy at home, kindly, submissive to their husbands. (Titus 2:3b-5a)  Both older women and men have the responsibility to mentor younger men and women not only in the faith, but in morality and how to be men and women of good character.

    God calls some of us to the ministry of spiritual direction; to help another person discern God’s Will for them. Sometimes the Holy Spirit leads a person to us who is new to the faith or less spiritually mature. We then serve as an informal spiritual director for them.

  These are just a few of the ways to fulfill the spiritual work of mercy to “Instruct the ignorant.” Perhaps you are surprised that what you have been doing for many years is actually a spiritual work of mercy. Or perhaps the Holy Spirit has shown you a new area where He would like you to serve. Either way, may God bless your efforts to serve Him.