I loved elementary school recess. I could kick a ball further than my buds (ballet I’m sure) and was quick enough for dodgeball. I can’t imagine playing dodgeball today but I thought of it as it relates to attack and deflect. Most attacks, if any, are words. Someone delivers words and we try for peace by way of deflection. On Sundays we are studying the book of James that references many proverbs, from the Book of Proverbs. It is better to listen than to speak. I think it very much speaks to people like me who like to write our words. We can offend. The comments I receive from the world of unfamiliar people are usually solicitations but I have had a few remarks of disagreement in person. This is the rule of life that people would rather correct you than compliment you. It must be hard to be a pastor. So be it. James 3:1-12 reminds us that teachers are to be careful because words are powerful (the ships rudder and horses bit). We bless and we curse. We attack and deflect. We can correct and apologize but the example I have heard recently is spilling down feathers from a pillow and trying to collect every last one – difficult. Having fewer opinions is a good application. Thank you Pastor Steve. Writers write because they have opinions – ouch.
I read a sweet story today. It is an account of high school sweethearts reconnecting after 60+ years. I like what he said, “We mix real well”. I like that. We do have instant connections with some but not with others. Those friendships morph and some last while others don’t. It is not right or wrong but about seasons. Philippians 4:8 says, “Finally, brothers and sisters, fill your minds with beauty and truth. Meditate on whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is good, whatever is virtuous and praiseworthy.” Button down the opinions and answer like honey but answer in truth. This sounds elementary but if someone calls you a name don’t call them a name but disagree with what they have said. Be careful because words are powerful. I think I wrote a fairly good letter to someone who had quite a few criticisms – most unwarranted. I hope I was kind but I think this is the best I can do. Dodgeball may be a bit like shaking off your feet. After a while you don’t want to play. Do not prostrate yourself to anyone but only to God. Meditate on honorable, right, pure, lovely, good, virtuous, and praiseworthy things. Smile as you dismiss the mud-slingers – it’s OK – but forget my opinion and do what God wants you to do.
