I’ve been doing some genealogy research for a friend who has many Quakers among her ancestors.  I’m finding people who truly put their beliefs into action.  They strongly opposed slavery, and because of this they were instrumental in initiating and operating the Underground Railroad.  The lives of black men and families mattered to them.  They were willing to put their own at risk to help.

I’ve often thought of the Quakers more in terms of what they would not do.  They would not take an oath or serve in the military.   They were seen as “different.”   But I’m finding they were also “different”  in terms of what they would do.  Originally called the Society of Friends, a key Quaker belief is that the presence of God exists in every person, man or woman.  They would play a key role in both the abolitionist and women’s rights movements.  Theirs was a faith in action.

It made me think deeply about my personal faith.  Is it a faith in action?  Does it linger within the walls of my church?  Does it dally among folks that look like me and act like I do?  Or does it extend to those who do not look like me? Is it open to those who do not think like me or do I turn to being judgemental?  It’s food for thought.

This beautiful hymn seems to express it well.

Judy