Bernard Mizeki's hidden messages

Bernard Mizeki, born in Mozambique and martyred at the age of 35 has become one of the most popular African saints in recent times. Remembered for his devoted teaching, linguistic talent and his help with translating the liturgies of the church into local dialects he is rightly celebrated in the Anglican churches calendar. He is also, probably less famously known, as a relative of two of our long standing St Chrysostom congregation members. 

Legend has it that Bernard would go around carving crosses into trees, as can be seen on his icon. This act seemed only to anger local tribe leaders and made no apparent difference to the success of his teaching. However I think this somewhat insignificant act of graffiti is actually an incredibly powerful way of spreading the gospel message. 

It reminds me of something I encounter everyday on my way to church. “£97 billion on new nuclear weapons, what idiot is going to pay for that?” 

A sticker on a lamppost just outside church at the crossing which like Bernard’s crosses probably gets missed by most people. But what about those who do see these tiny symbols or messages.

What appear at first, to be very little symbols, a simple two line carving or a small message actually hold incredibly powerful messages behind them.

The cross of Jesus symbolises his death, resurrection and life, the greatest message anyone can receive. So by carving his crosses Bernard was actually spreading the gospel in the simplest and easiest way imaginable.

It is hard to think of a simpler image that hides behind it such a powerful message.

But how can we spread this huge message in simple ways in our own lives? 

Through simple actions that make big differences to those that receive them. A hand shake or smile with a stranger, wearing a badge or slogan on your clothing, boycotting certain shops offering help to those in need.

Little actions that will often go unnoticed but convey powerful messages. Messages of hope, peace, love, reconciliation and acceptance. 

The kind of message that Bernard Mizeki was spreading through his tiny crosses, the same message that the still small voice of God is speaking through people every day. The most powerful message in the world.