"Again you have heard that it was said to your ancestors,
Do not take a false oath,
but make good to the Lord all that you vow.
But I say to you, do not swear at all.
Let your 'Yes' mean 'Yes,'and your 'No' mean 'No.'
Anything more is from the evil one."
MT 5:37
Words are more powerful than we realize. We like to say that sticks and stones may break our bones but words will not harm us, but I disagree. I recall times when words were stinging, and very hurtful. I was not physically hurt at all, but I imagine we all can recall some moment of injustice and pain caused by the spoken word, or these days, perhaps by the "messaged" or texted word that caused harm to us emotionally.
I hope as we continue to pray for peace that we will take a moment today, and pray for those who come to our hearts, and ask God for that grace to say words of healing and goodness, to speak the truth of the Gospels with strength and fortitude. Let us also pray for the ability to choose our words wisely and not to take our Lord's name in vain.
