Jill Duffield, Senior Pastor
I’ve noticed as of late that folks have been a little unfiltered, quick to press the send or post button. Is this just in my world or are you experiencing this, too? Some of these messages come from regular sources, others arrive out of left field with a subject line that makes one’s stomach do a backflip.
I’m not sure exactly why the rise in Harry Potter-esqe howlers, but I do know that being on the receiving end of them doesn’t feel great. If the sender’s point is to blow off steam, mission accomplished. If the hope is for a change of behavior or opinion, not so much. These missives are more likely to trigger defensiveness, distance, or entrenchment than transformation.
So, here’s my proposal as we look to Thanksgiving gatherings with family and friends and begin the Advent season with all its anticipation and, yes, busyness, let’s attempt to practice the art of the prayerful pause.
In the book of James we read, “So also the tongue is a small member, yet it boasts of great exploits. How great a forest is set ablaze by a such a small fire!” Unless we’re looking to set something on fire, it might be worth considering holding our tongue (and our typing). When anxiety gets high, we get reactive rather than responsive. We’re not our best selves. We “fire” off that angry email or say exactly what’s on our mind, but to what end? I recently read this catchy piece of wisdom: “When you get furious, get curious.” In other words, take a prayerful pause and wonder what might be going on with you. Then, since we’re people of faith, ask the Spirit to give you the wisdom to know if it is time to speak or keep silent. If, in fact, the admonition is to say something, pause again and pray for the Christ-like words.
When I began my tenure as an editor, the spouse of my beloved mentor gave me a beautiful painting that she created for me. It is glorious shades of blue with white breaking in like spots of light. This sentence floats over the sea of color: “Changing the world one word at a time.” It still hangs in my office, every time I look up from my computer I see it. Given that our God created with words, “Let there be light and there was…” we, too are entrusted with the power to use words in ways that build up, rather than tear down. However, we won’t be able to discern the difference without taking a prayerful pause before we speak.
May you feel God’s blessing this Thanksgiving. May you see the Risen Christ seated at your table. May the Spirit give you the words to speak or the ability to hold your tongue.
I am exceedingly grateful for you.
