A colleague and I were reflecting recently on a profoundly moving speech we both witnessed. I was determined to figure out what it was about that speech that had moved not just us but so many present.

“They must have a great speech writer!” I remarked. “No…” she said, “I don’t think that’s it.” I paused before adding: “Then they must be trained in persuasive speaking!” Shaking her head, she said: “No.... I think they just believed so deeply in the message they were delivering and its supreme importance at this moment. That’s something you can’t fake. Their hope spilled out of them and into us with every word.”

In today’s Gospel, Jesus’ passionate belief in his mission is evident in both his admonishment of those misusing his Father’s house and in his daily teaching in the temple area. Even those that wished to stop him from reaching others with his words couldn’t do so. When Jesus spoke, people hung on every word.

I find myself longing to inspire people with my words like that. But I am not Jesus. I also am far from the great speech givers of our time. But maybe my passion is enough. Maybe if I have enough faith to try, my hope will spill out of me into the world. Afterall, Christ has no voice left but mine.  

—Gretchen Crowder is Campus Minister at Jesuit College Preparatory School of Dallas.

Lord, 

I can feel your passion 
when I hear you speak of Your mission.

I can feel your hope
when I hear you speak of Your people.

I can feel your desire
when I hear you speak of Your Kingdom.

I hang on your every word, 
breathing in all that passion, hope, and desire for this world.

I want to stay right here, 
holding my breath
as I take in every word you speak. 

But then I hear you say:
“Breathe out. It’s your turn now.”

Grant me the courage I need to begin.

Amen.

—Gretchen Crowder