September 9 – The Practice of the Better
The best criticism of the bad is the practice of the better. In time, the fruits will be apparent. Richard Rohr
Gregg’s Reflection
Richard Rohr often says, “The best criticism of the bad is the practice of the better.” Prophecy does not stop at pointing out what is broken; it reveals and lives into a new possibility. Instead of shouting down the darkness, prophets light a candle that others can follow.
This was the path of Francis and Clare, who did not rage against wealth but embraced simplicity. It was the path of Martin Luther King Jr., who dreamed of a beloved community and began to live as if it were already here. It is the way of Jesus, whose teaching on the Kingdom was always paired with acts of healing, reconciliation, and love.
We are invited into the same prophetic practice. The world does not need more angry voices; it needs people who quietly but persistently live out God’s dream. By practicing the better, we proclaim hope more eloquently than words ever could.
Scripture
Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.
Romans 12:21
Ancient Quotes
Evil is powerless if the good are unafraid.
Origen, Homilies on Joshua
The deeds you do may be the only sermon some persons will hear today.
St. Francis of Assisi, Little Flowers of St. Francis
Modern Quotes
The best criticism of the bad is the practice of the better. Just go ahead and live positively, ‘In God, through God, with God.’ In time, the fruits will be apparent.
Richard Rohr, The Wisdom Pattern, p. 20
Prophets become so infatuated with God’s final ideal goal and vision that they become passionately sad and angry about what we’re doing now. Once we experience the universal being of God, the present becomes so dissatisfying… We wonder how people can be satisfied with so little.
Richard Rohr, Way of the Prophet
Journaling Prompts
- What small act of “better” can you embody this week as a prophetic sign?
- How might living differently speak more loudly than words in your community?
- Who in your life has modeled “the practice of the better” for you?
- Where do you sense God inviting you to embody hope rather than condemn despair?
Are there truth-tellers in your church community speaking truth to power? There are so many churches embracing Christian Nationalism, and those who disagree are more likely to leave than to speak out. Who will call us back to the path of Jesus if our leaders don’t?
Go deeper into this week’s theme:
Read the full Week 36 Reflection: Prophetic Voice