EXPRESSIONS OF FAITH
Learning to walk the talk

By John Toillion

Since being "reborn" in 1978, I have learned much in my walk with my Lord and savior Jesus Christ. One of the most important lessons I have learned is what my parents told me many years ago: "Actions speak louder than words."

This became very evident when a co-worker stopped me cold just as I was preparing to counsel her about not being productive or conscientious about her responsibilities. I will never forget when she said, "Excuse me, Mr. Toillion, before we start, I have something to say."

"Go ahead," I replied.

"I have been observing you for the past several weeks and have overheard you on the phone to someone, I think from your church, about some church program or activity and you sounded so pleasant, joyful and upbeat. That is not the case, however, when you speak to me. You normally provide a list of do's and don'ts and what I need to do to get my act together. I just wanted you to know that I really would like to know the other you — the one that is pleasant, joyful and so full of life."

And if that wasn't enough she went on to share that while walking to her car after work the previous day, she had dumped on a friend about the way I was treating her with lots of negatives and no positives. Her friend immediately responded, saying, "No way — not Mr. Toillion. He's a Christian, you know!"

Wow! Talk about being hit squarely between the eyes with a 50-pound brick.

As I looked down at the list of things I had planned to discuss with her — mostly negatives — I realized that I, not her, was the one who needed this counseling session, for she was absolutely correct in her observations.

I immediately realized that my actions had spoken louder than words. I told her that she was right and that I needed to change, which I promised to do.

Then she added the kicker: "Mr. Toillion, I have another request. Could you tell me the name and location of your church because it sounds like a really neat church with lots of fun programs and activities, especially for families with young children." Did I mention she had nine children?

Knowing her background was Catholic, I encouraged her to attend a nearby Catholic church, but she refused, saying, "No, I want to check out your church!" She and her nine children did check out my church and continued to attend until she transferred back to the Mainland.

As one of two church elders on our evangelism ministry team, one of my responsibilities is to help provide instruction on how to evangelize without being obtrusive or offensive.

We focus on relational evangelism with those in our circle of influence: family, neighbors, and co-workers. Little did I know that those around me who know I am a born-again Christian are watching me to see if I do "walk the talk."

John Toillion is an elder at Mililani Presbyterian Church. Expressions of Faith is a column that welcomes submissions from pastors, priests, lay workers and other leaders in faith and spirituality.