Readings: IS 55:10-11; MT 6:7-15
In todays readings we hear about the importance of words. The words we say and the words we think have an impact on us and on the world.
I think about the power of words to build us up or tear us down. Or the power of words to shape our imagination or impact what we think is possible.
Bottom line: words are not insignificant. They are a form of energy, and if we take the biblical narrative seriously, we will see that it matters what we say.
I love the studies I have seen where a group of people are read words, for example, that are related to being elderly. And guess what, the folks who leave the study (even if they are younger people) walk more slowly and report feeling more feeble!
Think about the words you say to others. How about the words you use to talk to yourself. These matter too.
And Jesus gives us words to say when we pray. Simple words that can shape us and the world. Words that usher in God’s kingdom. Words that ask for daily bread. Words that encourage forgiveness and release.
Todays readings invite us to think more deeply about the words we use – the ones we say, the ones we think, the ones we post on social media. What do these words set in motion in the world (whether we recognize it or not)? What did words spoken to us or about us set in motion?
We can also work to notice the words that are said about others, the words that are unsaid, who gets to speak and how often, whose words are taken seriously and whose are ignored, etc.
So for today, spend some time with God without words (!) to reflect on the power of words.
13 Comments
Jennie Chmielewski
So very true, will spend some quiet time with the Lord today.🙏😇🙏
Mike Boucher Author
Amen!
Mike
Pray and Meditate in silence. Listen.
Mike Boucher Author
A very sound sequence, Mike
Nannette Dusseault
Thank you, Mike! *Your* words are thought-provoking. I think it’s kind to use descriptive adjectives especially carefully. They have a lot of power to heal or harm.
Mike Boucher Author
Thanks for commenting, Nannette. I appreciate the idea of using adjectives carefully!
Claire Benesch
Thank you, Mike! I have such a hard time using my words to stand up to people who have very racist ideas I was in the company of two women who lumped all People of Color in one category, dangerous, violent, and shiftless. I tried to speak up, but they knew the truth because of their own experiences. I felt helpless. I will meditate today on how I may be better able to use my words for social justice.
Judy Kiley
A later thought ….. Do you personally know any person of color? Or have you ever had a conversation with a POC?
Mike Boucher Author
That is a powerful reflection, Claire. It names an important reality for me (that I have experienced) of trying to find my words – words to confront, words to speak out, words to resist the hatred, racism and oppression around us. And your experience, I’m guessing, would be shared by many. I also appreciate that you will take your desire to speak and work, with God’s help, to match it with words to speak.
Mary Alice Moore
Mike, Your words are so inspiring! Thank you.
Mike Boucher Author
Much appreciated. Glad to have you along with us on the journey!
Barb Simmons
I think this Cherokee Prayer sums up your reflection. Thank you for your words, Mike.
“Help me always to speak the truth quietly, to listen with an open mind when others speak, and to remember the peace that my be found in silence.”
Mike Boucher Author
Beautiful, Barb. Thank you!
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