Light Words

I heard an interesting story about grumbling and gratitude several years ago. There was a certain monastery which enforced a vow of silence. Each monk could utter only two words every five years, and those two words had to be spoken in the presence of the abbot. One of the monks, when given his opportunity to speak, said, “Bad food!” Five years later, his two words were, “Bed hard.” When given his third opportunity to speak five years later, he said, “I quit.” “Well,” said the abbot, “you might as well quit. All you’ve done since you got here is complain.”

I do not know if the story is true, but I believe it speaks to the human condition. It matters how we use our words. They can help or hurt, build up or tear down, encourage or enrage. I encourage you to pay attention to your words this week, and, in doing so, you will see where your heart is. Talk might be cheap, but it can certainly do a lot of damage.

The Bible speaks to the need to choose our words carefully. “Do all things without murmuring and arguing, so that you may be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, in which you shine like stars in the world” (Philippians 2:14,15, NRSV.)

 Life can feel pretty gloomy at times, and there are plenty of discouraging things all around us. It is in these dark times that we need a new light to guide our path and our words. May you see this light breaking in all around you, and may you let it shine through you today!

In Hope and Confidence, Pastor Dave

P.S. We have a lot of great events coming up at St. Mark in May. I encourage you to celebrate with your family of faith!