The Power of Words
Today’s Readings: AM Psalm 41, 52; Job 32:1-10,19-33:1,19-28; Acts 13:44-52; John 10:19-30
When one of our daughters was 2-3 years old, we realized that although she made some sounds, they were not what you might describe as language or words that held meaning. Her behavior which had always been easy going and pleasant shifted to erratic and angry. The therapist we saw explained that the urge to communicate is one if not the strongest of all our desires, in other words our ability to be understood ranks at the top of the priority list. She was frustrated.
Communicating can involve a lot more than words but our language, our tools for expressing ourselves, are incredibly important. We say words can’t hurt us, but they sure can sink ships! Words, misspoken or misunderstood have started unknown numbers of arguments, global conflicts, and possibly even wars. Divisions along political party lines, between countries and families often begin with words. Gun violence can begin with something as simple as a word taken as disrespect. Words can be more destructive than a gust of wind and more soothing than the balm of Gilead. Handled recklessly they can be as dangerous as a trigger-happy marksman.
In both the New Testament readings for today, words are the key characters. The word of God stirred up and warmed the hearts of believers and incited riots. In the gospel of John, the Word was with God and the Word was God. Jesus was the Word, which had existed before time. Jesus became frustrated when the Jews asked, “Tell us plainly, are you the Messiah? I have told you, and you do not believe.” He probably thought, “How many ways can I say it? “
How often have we used words to tear someone down rather than build them up? To criticize rather than praise? How often have our words been misunderstood, or re-scripted so that they no longer hold their original meaning? We are inundated by words from every direction. So much so that words threaten to lose their meaning. In 2023, 690 new words were added to the Miriam-Webster dictionary. Scrabble enthusiasts must have had a field day! I for one, stop listening when they begin to crowd out my own thoughts.
The sad commentary is that we so rarely hear examples of words that are used to build people up, to bring good news to the poor, to share hope and optimism. Jesus used words to heal, to inspire, to encourage, to lift up the downtrodden and to admonish when needed. The apostles following his example did the same. It’s tempting to block out the crass, thoughtless, way words are thrown around, often with little attention to their veracity. How can we use the same words of the apostles, of Jesus, in positive constructive ways? To approach differences with respect and an open listening heart? How can we craft our thoughts in a more thoughtful way so that our message is one of abundant grace and love, rather than discouraging and negative?
Faithfully,
Sally+
Questions for Reflection: How often do you stop before speaking to reflect on the impact your words might have? Have you considered taking time to craft your words more carefully so that they open doors of communication rather than shut them down?