The idea of being known by our works feels like a big deal. A major responsibility.

People are watching. Observing. Following along. Am I doing it right? Am I setting a good example? Will they catch me when I’m not paying attention and do something I didn’t mean to?

A former bishop of mine bought front “clergy” plates for all the clergy of the diocese to put on our cars. Of course, none of us wanted them. It would mean even our driving would be scrutinized. And we were afraid of all of the unintented messages we’d send.

I suspect, however, that the more we focus on evaluating the behaviors of one another, the less we actually see the work of the Spirit. Because I’m not the spirit. But I know the Spirit can do her work through me. If I’m willing to let her.