Read: Proverb 18:21, Colossians 4:6, and James 3:1-12 (see also Ecclesiastes 10:12)
I love musicals. The blending of heart-warming drama with well-written songs is a very effective way of communicating the message of a story. I find myself able to recall the lyrics of certain songs years later. One of my favorite musicals is White Christmas. I can still see Bing, Danny, Rosemary and Vera-Ellen sitting at a table on a train heading to Vermont. They were full of excitement and high expectation for the fun that would be had and the beauty they would enjoy once they reached the ski resort. I agree that snow can be both fun and beautiful, but there can also be a less beautiful side to it as well.
Last week this area experienced a mild snowfall. We received no more than a two to three inch accumulation. That was not a problem by itself, but before ending, the snow changed to sleet and freezing rain. Added to the mix was the fact that the temperatures were below freezing. Once the precipitation stopped, it froze solid. Anyone who made the mistake of not clearing it away immediately, found it next to impossible to remove.
During one of the days following, my family and I had to venture out and brave the weather. Surprisingly, the Beltway was quite clear and travel was smooth. About 15 minutes into the trip a semi truck passed by us on the left. As it passed, the snow and ice that had been lodged atop the cab decided to take flight. The once solid sheet began to break up and scatter over the roadway. Cars started weaving and dodging what they knew would be certain danger should either piece make contact with their vehicle. As we watched the momentary chaos, a large piece of ice and frozen snow was hurled into our windshield. It hit the driver's side and ricocheted back into the road. The entire episode lasted for only 15 to 20 seconds, yet we were left with utter destruction. The site of impact resembled a dart board with four concentric rings. The passenger side, however, was completely shattered. Fortunately none of us was hurt, and we were able to get home safely. The amazing thing about it all was that the driver of the semi was totally unaware that any of this had happened. He continued on, undaunted by the terror and destruction that had been unleashed onto those that had shared the road with him.
Our scripture readings for the month remind us that our words are weighty. We can use them to speak to our Heavenly Father, pronounce a blessing on others, encourage and instruct. But just like our semi friend, they can be hurled at others and in the blink of an eye shatter their lives into pieces. Some people are like the cars that were able to dodge the oncoming debris and drive along unscathed. Still others are like our van. The incoming debris makes a direct hit and totally shatters their lives. Whether intentional or unawares, the impact of those words are devastating.
As the children of God we do not have the luxury of "driving" off without a care. We have a responsibility of being watchful over the words that we speak. We are to be quick to hear, SLOW TO SPEAK, and slow to anger. When we speak, our words are to be seasoned with grace. We are to be gracious in all of our conversations. We cannot "let it fly" then claim that we were speaking the truth in love, or that the person deserved a piece of our mind. When we make verbal errors, we are to ask forgiveness of God for our actions and the person that was harmed by them. We are to pray that they receive healing from the wounds we have inflicted. My insurance company is going to replace the windshield on the van. In a few days it will be as good as new. Likewise we have an Incredible Insurance Provider who is able to bring total restoration to damaged lives as well.
Every word we speak has an impact in the lives of those who are listening. Before we utter a word today, let's remember the scene on the Beltway and choose our words with loving care.
Prayer
May the words of my mouth and the meditations of my heart be acceptable in Your sight, O Lord, my Strength and my Redeemer. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
