By Philip Shano, SJ

Jesus was an effective communicator and teacher. We read in the Gospel how he taught with authority. He knew his audience and was attentive to their needs. The Gospel offers examples of his diverse communication styles: teaching, preaching, debating, storytelling and parables, offering wisdom, silent actions (such as drawing in the sand or healing), encouragement to those who struggle, and the use of easily accessible images that relate to daily life (seeds, weeds, trees, sheep, storms, and so). He was a teacher with many gifts in his toolkit. He knew plenty about using the most appropriate means to get across his point.

Some of the most creative and effective ways that the people of God communicate the Gospel today is with our contemporary tools: social media, YouTube, PowerPoint, and Zoom. Jesus would likely be comfortable with methods available to us. CJI and other organizations make good use of the technology. The pandemic heightened the benefits and led to innovative approaches.

Despite the many contemporary resources, more traditional methods continue to be used with remarkable success around the globe. Consider one of the project partners of CJI: ERIC-Radio Progreso, in Honduras. One of the means they use is the simple tool of radio. Radio Progreso uses community radio to advance their work with marginalized communities. About one million listeners tune in! The project accompanies the people of Honduras and provides education to strengthen human rights and promote economic, social, and political alternatives for the well-being of marginalized communities.

The Gospel tells us often about individuals coming to listen to Jesus. People are intrigued and curious to encounter this charismatic and engaging teacher. For instance, on this Sunday in Lent, we hear that the tax collectors and sinners were coming near to listen to him. This caused the leaders to grumble and say, “This fellow welcomes sinners and eats with them.” Jesus has an intuitive sense of how to speak with people: admonishing some and encouraging others; speaking insightful truths to some and being gentle with others. He always has the right words. People are engaged by what Jesus is saying. This threatened the religious leaders.

Those in leadership in places such as Honduras are often threatened in a similar manner, especially when communication tools — whether traditional or new — mean that projects such as Radio Progreso, engage marginalized people and invite them to imagine alternatives to what they see around them.

Take time this week to reflect on what captivates you about the teaching style of Jesus. What do you hear him say to you or those in leadership? Are the words gentle or admonishing? Are leaders threatened? Are you? What challenges you in what he says, especially as we move through this season of Lent?

Fr Philip Shano SJ has been a Jesuit since 1978.  He has extensive experience teaching, giving retreats, and writing in the area of Ignatian spirituality. He is a member of the Jesuit Community in Guelph and is a member of CJI’s Board of Trustees.