Playing with Words

I am a wordsmith; I enjoy reading and writing, and often enjoy finding just the right word to use in whatever context I’m in. An example, speaking with a colleague last week we discussed the differences in how words are translated in scripture, and how that can have distinct meanings.

Psalm 23, for example, in the BCP not only speaks of a cup that ‘shall be full’; but of waters of comfort; these same passages in the BAS indicate a cup ‘running over’ and waters that are ‘still.’ They are close, but the nuance provides distinction. (A full cup may be difficult to carry, but has not yet made the mess on the counter of a cup running over; the lack of movement of still waters does not necessarily mean they are waters of comfort.)

It can be good for us to recall, then, how our words matter; how our use of words can impact on others. Whether its words of a bygone era that jar our modern compassion (I completed a crossword puzzle today where one of the answers was a racial slur!), or whether our unintentional rigidity can be painful for an individual (careful and appropriate use of names and pronouns can show respect for someone), or whether our desire to fill an awkward silence brings out unintentionally inappropriate commentary (we’ve all seen someone, including ourselves, sticking the proverbial foot in one’s mouth): whatever it is, our words matter. What we say matters, what we write matters, what we convey matters.

Knowing how easy it can be to fumble and bumble over words in casual conversation, and recognising the way those can influence and impact conversation and relationship, it may be wise to be especially intentional about how we speak of faith and church and religion: in a society where everyone has some concept and context of the institutional church (and they may be negative or neutral), the use of words can make a big difference in the sharing of the faith.

The Word of God came down, and used words, and brought us truth and love and grace therein. Let’s aim to continue with the love of Christ in the words we use.