The Power of Words and How to Use Them
Children's sermon
Illustration
Preaching
Sermon
Worship
For September 16, 2018:
The Power of Words and How to Use Them
by Bethany Peerbolte
James 3:1-12, Mark 8:27-38, Proverbs 1:20-33, Psalm 19
Take a minute and re-read James 3:1-12 but replace tongue with thumb. Texting, tweeting, and commenting online have given our thumbs a brand-new power. James warns about guarding the power of the tongue and that applies to our thumbs as well. Social media use can mirror gambling addictions and new psychological syndromes are being identified as people compare their real-life problems to the perfect lives presented online by their friends. If this kind of input is affecting our society so immensely, Christians need to be aware of it and guard their output. As cyberbullying, shaming, and blaming continues to be a growing problem Christians can use the words from James to help shape a safer world wide web.
In the Scripture
The topic of “words” and the best way to use them is a common thread throughout the scripture selections this week. Wisdom offers words freely to inspire the simple, Isaiah finds humble courage in words, James warns that words have immense power, and Jesus cautions us about the intentions behind our words.
Proverbs 1:23 says that wisdom will make her words known to those who heed her and fear the lord. Wisdom holds out her hands filled with words, thoughts, and knowledge. This generous offer, however, is refused by some. Wisdom has little sympathy for those who refuse her words. Those who refuse will be mocked and jeered. Those who listen will live at ease.
The obvious choice then is to accept Wisdom’s gift of wise words. A life of ease sounds better than being mocked and jeered. However, Isaiah 50:4-9 shows that those who do use wise words will be mocked not by wisdom but by the world. For Isaiah the pestering is worth enduring because words awaken him to a sense of purpose. He can deal with the beard pulling and backstabbing if he can teach. Isaiah’s tone is fearless as he dares adversaries to challenge his words. Isaiah revels in the call to be a teacher but also remains humble enough to know he must keep listening. Isaiah says he listens every morning to new words, so he can be taught afresh. This step is so important it is presented at the beginning of section -- pointing to the importance of always being a student even when called to be a great teacher.
James 3:1-12 echoes the importance of remaining humble. There he warns that if you feel called to be a teacher you must also accept a harsher judgment. Teachers influence with their words and words have a power that needs to be respected. James weaves together images of a horse’s bridle, a ships rudder, and a spark starting a fire to show the power of words. Words guide us like that of a bridle in a horse’s mouth. Where our words point is the direction we will go. Our words are formed by a small muscle, our tongue, but control our whole being like a small rudder turning a massive ship. Then like one small spark can start a devastating forest fire, even the smallest of words can set into motion events that can change the course of our lives and beyond. If this is the power words have, then it is right to be mindful of what words we use in private or in public.
Jesus knew words and titles could get him and his disciples in trouble. In Mark 8:27-38, Jesus askes the disciples who they say he is. The word they choose to describe him is “messiah.” This word was dangerous, and Jesus orders them not to use the word with anyone else. Jesus was not the first person to which the word “Messiah” was ascribed. People claiming to be the messiah had a price on their head from that point forward. Jesus then gives a statement that Peter thinks goes against the rule to avoid the messiah word. Jesus describes what “the Son of Man” aka the Messiah must go through. Peter thinks Jesus is trying to be coy about claiming the word “messiah” and attempting to make people read between the lines of his statement. The events Jesus describes, suffering and being rejected, sound too close to what Jesus is experiencing and Peter worries the statement is just as bad as coming out and saying messiah. Peter has already heard Jesus describe himself as the Son of Man, and Jesus has publicly been rejected by the groups Jesus is talking about. When Peter confronts Jesus and tries to give advice Jesus pushes back on Peter’s objections. For Jesus, the warning to avoid using the word messiah was not about saving his life. Jesus knew most people were not ready to hear the whole truth and so the title of Messiah would not glorify God yet. Jesus uses words intentionally to help move the message forward. For the time, “Son of Man” is all the crowd can handle, but soon they will be able to hear “Messiah” and not scoff or run away.
Like the psalmist writes in Psalm 19 we should live so the words of our mouth and the meditation of our heart are acceptable to the Lord. This means choosing to seek out and accept wise words, remaining humble as we teach, respecting the power of a word, and being intentional about what words we use around different people.
In the News
Netflix has the teenage rom-com genre on lock right now. Their newest release is called Sierra Burgess is a Loser. In this movie, Sierra Burgess seems to be perfectly at peace with her loser status. She can even face insults from popular cheerleaders with confidence and a sense of humor... until she gets sucked into the crisis of wanting to impress a boy. She makes assumptions about what he wants and leads him into a Cyrano-type romance. Spoiler alert, it all blows up in her face. When the truth is revealed Sierra must reassess what is important and find her true self again. If only she had listened to the motto she tells herself in the mirror in the first scene “you are a magnificent beast” she may have not lost herself in the first place.
Sierra’s character is relatable because her problematic assumptions stem from the social pressure the internet places on users. Facebook Addiction Disorder is gaining attention in recent psychology studies. Findings show similar addiction patterns in social media use as gambling addicts. This could be because media sites are using similar tactics as casinos to integrate their product in the user’s life. Facebook Addiction may sound like a comedy bit, but more and more people are admitting to not having control over their use. A study in Norway created a scale to measure addiction levels. They also found people who are socially anxious suffer from Facebook addiction more often.
Constantly checking Facebook and other social media sites can seriously affect a person’s mental health. Since most users only post when life is good the image presented is distorted. When someone is suffering but sees all their friends enjoying and living amazing lives the depression is compounded. Some researchers believe social media and teen mental health are directly correlated. The Anxiety and Depression Association of America point to a few reasons teens suffer from social media usage. Teenagers have always wanted to be part of the crowd, but with social media the expectations are severely warped. The bar can be set so high teens lose hope of ever being able to connect with a common friend group. Cyberbullying is also a great concern. Insults can quickly reach a large population and taking back those words is impossible. Effects are seen in the bullied and the bullies. The victims are shamed and forced into social exile. The attackers often regret their words and have no way to effectively do damage control.
Celebrities are not immune to the bullying. This week Ariana Grande, a popular singer who has an influential social media presence, was forced to take a break from social media after her ex-boyfriend, Mac Miller, died of an apparent overdose. Fans of Mac Miller berated Ariana for leaving Miller when he was at rock bottom and blamed her for his death. The word attacks are not new, when Ariana and Mac originally broke up she was accused of pushing him to the edge and causing his DUI. Her response is a great example of speaking wisdom, remaining humble, respecting the power of words, and keeping good intentions.
In the Sermon
Depending on the struggles a community has with words there are several places a preacher can take this week’s lessons.
Mark: Social Media Breakdown
For a congregation that is familiar with social media it may be fun to be creative with the Mark passage. The story lends itself to a great Twitter or Facebook crisis as the disciples struggle to “post” the right words and Jesus polices their public word choice.
For example, you can describe the exchange as if it is a story pulled from social media.
Jesus Posts: “If you gave me a nickname what would it be?”
Mark’s reply: “Jesus John the Baptist”
Andrew’s reply: “Elijah”
Peter’s reply: “Messiah”
Private message from Jesus to Peter: “Messiah is kind of a dangerous word. Take that tweet down.” *Peter deletes reply*
Jesus Posts: “The Son of Man must suffer and be rejected by the elders, the chief priests, and the scribes, and be killed, and after three days rise again.”
Text from Peter to Jesus: “Dude you JUST asked me to take down the tweet about Messiah then you do a post about the Son of Man suffering and being rejected!? It’s the same thing. Stop it”
Jesus’ reply: “Get behind me Satan. I didn’t ask you to stop talking about me, just not to use the word Messiah. Some people aren’t ready to see me that way and I don’t want to freak them out.”
Jesus Posts: “If you want to follow me be humble and acknowledge your mistakes. Those who present perfect lives so they can get more followers are fake. Only those who are authentic can hang with me. What is the point to having thousands of followers and no real friends.”
Isaiah: Mirror Motto
Another option is to look at the way Isaiah found courage from words while also remaining a humble student. While Proverbs presents a warning about not accepting wise words, Isaiah points out that being the one speaking wisdom will also win you rejection. The world’s rejection is something Isaiah can face. He does not appear bothered by the back smacking or beard pulling. Since Isaiah finds his worth in God he is not fazed by the mean words being hurled at him. The final verse sounds like a mantra given to oneself in a mirror. The Lord is for me, no one can bring me down. They will become tired of teasing me if I just stay focused on God and not let their words affect me. Maybe Isaiah really believes them, or maybe like most mottos these are the wise words to which Isaiah aspires. In the Netflix original movie Sierra Burgess is a Loser, her mirror motto every morning is “You are a magnificent beast.” Her level of belief in this statement fluctuates but the motto reminds her of her best self. Some days the words inspire her to stand up against the bullies and dream big. Other days the motto is the only thing that convinces her to get out of bed. Sierra eventually realizes she is her best self when she stays connected to what she loves -- music -- and does not fight against who she was created to be.
James: Ancient Words for a Modern World
The verses from James give great images to work with as well. Replacing the word tongue with thumb is enough to put a modern spin on these ancient words of wisdom. Typing on our phones is a workout for our thumbs. What use to be restricted to grip power now has the power of words. Combined with the anonymity of usernames, words can be hurled without the risk of social consequences. Cyber bullying and shaming are a growing problem in societies with mass internet access. The repercussions of thoughtless words can be seen with spikes in anxiety, depression, and suicide. James’ words ring even more true in this new light.
Words have the power to lead us down a path. We can choose to put words in our mouth that are kind and thus lead us into loving, supportive relationships. We can also choose to put words of hate in our mouths, causing us to go down a path of solitude and darkness.
What may seem like a small thing, our thumbs have the power to steer our lives. They can write posts that shame and blame others, which then puts us in the chaotic waters of accusation and argument. Our thumbs can also post things that we love, leading us into waters we know and can navigate wisely.
Even kids know a small word, particularly the four-letter ones, can set off a huge reaction. There is a lot of talk about what words are appropriate and which are not. The debates may be wasted time on political correctness, or they may be the growing pains of a maturing society. Words are powerful, and James warns us to stay aware of which ones might spark a fire.
(Back to top of page)
SECOND THOUGHTS
Just Follow
by Chris Keating
Mark 8:27-38
When Colin Kaepernick communicates with his followers, he rarely says a word. He tweets fairly often, though usually he is merely retweeting what others have said. He shows up at events but is rarely interviewed. He appears on the cover of magazines like GQ though he never answered a single question. As other NFL players start their season, he remains shut out of football -- even though he’s still the topic of controversy.
Perhaps it is because Kaepernick prefers following rather than talking.
Since his decision in 2016 to kneel or sit instead of standing for the national anthem, Kaepernick has been at the center of a cultural storm. Kaepernick said that he would kneel during the playing of the Star-Spangled Banner in support of Black Lives Matter movement and to protest police violence against African-Americans. He quickly became the pariah of many fans and was voted the most disliked player in the NFL.
He keeps his reasons for kneeling simple and to the point, and he seems to understand that his protests come at a cost.
“I am not going to stand up to show pride in a flag for a country that oppresses black people and people of color,” he says. “To me, this is bigger than football and it would be selfish on my part to look the other way. There are bodies in the street and people getting paid leave and getting away with murder.”
His actions created an uproar, including the ire of President Trump, the commander-in-tweet. Kaepernick faced death threats and accusations. He was slandered by rumors, including insults condemning him as a Muslim. (It’s hard imagining why that actually matters; either way, it was was not true.) Since he opted out of his contract with the 49ers in 2017, Kaepernick has remained an unsigned free agent and a virtual untouchable in the league. After watching less experienced and less skilled players get contracts, he filed a lawsuit against the NFL alleging that the league has colluded against him, and it appears both sides will get their day in court.
But he’s the story that won’t end, even when he doesn’t say much. When it was announced that Kaepernick would be the standard bearer for Nike’s new ad campaign celebrating the 30th anniversary of their “Just Do It” slogan, controversies stirred once more. The ad features Kaepernick’s face on the screen with the words, “Believe in something. Even if it means sacrificing everything.” Not surprisingly, reaction to the ad campaign was swift since there are few things more volatile in the United States than race, politics, football and patriotism.
It’s a fair guess that was exactly what Nike was counting on when it signed Kaepernick. (Spoiler alert: their sales went up, even as some fans engaged in performative protests against the company by burning their Nike gear.) It’s also a fair guess that Kaepernick understood what the impact would be.
Plenty of people are arguing that Kaepernick has not sacrificed a thing. Go visit Arlington cemetery, they tell him. Listen to Gold Star families. Let them tell you about sacrifice. Social media ripples with these and other sentiments, though it’s interesting to note that it was a former Green Beret who advised Kaepernick to take a knee.
Who do we say that he is? A priggish former football player trying to grab the limelight, or a spokesperson for a new generation of activists? A millionaire thumbing his nose at the nation? A spoiled 30-year old who knows nothing about sacrifice? What exactly has Colin Kaepernick sacrificed?
Those who are confused by or unclear about Kaepernick’s actions are not paying attention.
He’s no John Lewis, but it does seem that the Kaepernick’s critics do not comprehend thee depth of his commitment. This has never been a protest of veterans. It has never been a denunciation of American values. He’s not saying a lot, but his silence is telling. Instead of holding a gigantic “John 3:16” sign, Kaepernick seems to be guided by a determined faithfulness.
Colin Kaepernick may be no John Lewis, but he is hardly a Tim Tebow, either.
Tebow, beloved in evangelical circles, is known for dropping to a knee in prayer following a successful pass. He’s a straight-shooting white evangelical known for his outspoken faith.
Kaepernick, for his part, doesn’t say much about his faith. His body is inked with tattoos across his body, including scripture verses like “God will guide me.” He put his faith into action by raising money for Somalia. He’s moved by a sense of injustice. And when he did speak about faith, he had this to say:
Colin Kaepernick is not the Messiah, but it does not seem fair to say has not made sacrifices. Even if the countless hours of physical training he has endured are set aside, and even if the years of preparing to play football at the highest level of the game are disregarded, Kaepernick has exchanged playing the game he loves for something more. He seems intent on following where those commitments may lead -- and that will nearly always involves sacrifice.
Who do we say that he is? Time will tell. It’s quite possible Kaepernick’s greatest sacrifices will be off the field.
(Back to top of page)
ILLUSTRATIONS
From team member Mary Austin:
James 3:1-12
The Words We Use
“All of us make many mistakes,” proclaims this letter, in our speaking. We have that in common, no matter our level of education or wealth, and wherever we live in the world. Another thing we have in common is the word we all use most often. The most commonly used word in the world, regardless of location or national language, is “ok.” Ok is “one of the most frequently used and recognized words in the world. It is also one of the oddest expressions ever invented. But this oddity may in large measure account for its popularity. It's odd-looking. It's a word that looks and sounds like an abbreviation, an acronym. We generally spell it OK -- the spelling okay is relatively recent, and still relatively rare -- and we pronounce it not “ock” but by sounding the names of the letters O and K.”
The sound pops up in a number of languages: In Native American Choctaw: Okeh -- it is so. In Scottish, Och aye -- oh yes. In Greek, Ola kal, among others.
Linguist Allan Metcalf suggests that it has a place in our language because, as James urges, it’s not inflammatory. “But what makes OK so useful that we incorporate it into so many conversations?” he asks. “It's not that it was needed to “fill a gap” in any language. Before 1839, English speakers had “yes,” “good,” “fine,” “excellent,” “satisfactory,” and “all right.” What OK provided that the others did not was neutrality, a way to affirm or to express agreement without having to offer an opinion. Consider this dialogue: “Let's meet again this afternoon.” Reply: “OK.” Compare that with: “Let's meet again this afternoon.” Reply: “Wonderful!” or “If we must.” OK allows us to view a situation in simplest terms, just OK or not.”
Ok gives us a way to tone things down -- surely James would approve!
* * *
James 3:1-12
Hate Speech
In line with James’ admonition not to inflame people with our speech, tech and social media companies have been in the spotlight recently, as Congress -- and the American people -- ask questions about what we can trust online. Tech companies say that they are neutral, and critics argue back that neutrality about hate speech and untruth give a privileged place to falsehoods and division. Hateful speech, the thing James warns about, is sorted out by algorithms. They are, apparently, more easily fooled than humans are. “Hate speech detectors are easily tricked. A test of systems designed to identify offensive speech online shows that a few innocuous words or spelling errors can easily trip them up. The results cast doubt on the use of technology to tame online discourse.”
Facebook employs 15,000 people to look at false or hateful posts, and plans to use artificial intelligence to do just what James is urging us all to do. Perhaps we could just do it ourselves?
* * *
James 3:1-12
Extra Words
Even when we choose our words carefully, a lot depends on the listener. Our busy brains can take in “275 more words per minute than are actually spoken.” We fill the extra space with plans for dinner, answering email and adding context to what we think the other person said. Dr. Gail Brenner says, “Notice how when someone is speaking, you are partially listening, while simultaneously planning the rest of your day, replaying a meeting that just occurred, or deciding what you will say next. Paying attention is the cardinal rule for good listening. Hear the words, and let their meaning in. If your mind wanders, simply re-focus your attention on the conversation.”
If the speaker is careful with their words, as James advises, we as listeners are invited to be just as careful with our hearing. We might try this idea: “Be an explorer. Explorers are open and curious. They are inquisitive, without knowing what they will find. So what to do with all of that excess brain power? Focus on the speaker. Notice body language, tone of voice, and rate of speaking. Then look beneath the words to see what feelings and needs are being communicated. You never know what you might find.”
Wise speaking invites wise listening, as two parts of the same process.
* * * * * * * * *
From team member Tom Willadsen:
Psalm 116:1-9
Application: The psalmist sings God’s praise for deliverance from illness. Unlike nine out of ten lepers in the gospels, the psalmist remembers the Lord and lifts praise and gratitude
v. 4 “Then I called on the name of the Lord ‘O Lord, I pray, save my life!’” recalls a classic joke:
An atheist was spending a quiet day fishing when suddenly his boat was attacked by the Loch Ness monster. In one easy flip, the beast tossed him and his boat high into the air. Then it opened its mouth to swallow both.
As the man sailed head over heels, he cried out, “Oh, my God! Help me!”
At once, the ferocious attack scene froze in place, and as the atheist hung in mid-air, a booming voice came down from the clouds, “I thought you didn't believe in Me!”
“Come on God, give me a break!” the man pleaded. “Two minutes ago I didn't believe in the Loch Ness monster either!”
* * *
Isaiah 50:4-9a
Application: The prophet calls for open ears and the tongue of teacher. The latter verses are often seen as foretelling Jesus’ suffering. The prophet says he will withstand physical abuse and insult.
The phrase “set my face like flint,” recalls the stoic determination of the young students who integrated Little Rock’s public schools in 1955.
* * *
Proverbs 1:20-33
Application: Wisdom personified scoffs at and mocks those who do not heed her, just as the Lord laughs at the plans of mortals in Psalm 2. Of all the laughter in the Bible, by far the most abundant type of laughter is laughter at someone or something.
In this passage Wisdom does not only mock, but also says she will not rescue the foolish who did not listen to her. A sort of cosmic “I told you so,” not exactly the sort of thing we typically associate with the Almighty, but vengeance is part of the whole of what the Bible reveals to use about the Lord.
The metaphor of “just desserts” continues with
…they shall eat the fruit of their way
And be sated with their own devices.
As it appears in the psalms, fear of the Lord is considered wisdom, but not Wisdom personified.
* * *
Psalm 19
Application: This psalm has always struck me as a sort of “wonder whiplash.” The first six verses are all about the beauty of the heavens and the wonders of the Lord that are displayed in the sky. I used to preach a sermon each year on recent discoveries in astronomy and how science, in building instruments that helped us discover increasingly small and distant objects in the heavens, points beyond the beauty of creation to the power of the creator. These first six verses make that case very solidly.
The rest of the psalm is much closer to earth. The second section, vv.7-13, praises the Lord’s instruction, law, decrees, precepts, commandments and ordinances. It’s as though the psalmist broke out Roget’s and used every possible synonym for “rules.” This is, of course, a sign of good Hebrew poetic style, where meanings rhyme, not sounds.
v. 14 “Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart
be acceptable to you,
O Lord, my rock and my redeemer.”
Many preachers use a variation on this verse as part of prayer immediately before starting a sermon. This verse very well could originate in another place; it does not really continue a theme from earlier in the psalm, and it’s a complete thought on its own.
* * *
The sweetness and value of God’s laws.
Application: The psalmist states that knowledge of the Lord’s commands are “to be desired more than gold,” and sweeter than honey, another gold thing.
At least one school of instruction used honey to teach students how to form letters. When the students got the shape right, they were permitted to eat their honey-shaped creation; a literal way that the student experienced the sweetness of learning.
* * *
But who can detect their errors?
Clear me from hidden faults.
Application: The psalmist knows that even recognizing the majesty of the Lord in the night sky, and being thankful for the guidance and instruction the Lord’s law provides, they may still have faults, flaws, sins, that they are not aware of.
Verse 12 is sort of a catch-all. The psalmist is humble enough to know that even their close self-examination and their scrupulous adherence to the law may not keep them righteous, that is innocent or blameless.
This verse recalls a humorous moment in the examination by the Senate of The Honorable Richard J. Sullivan earlier this summer, for an appellate court position. Sullivan was asked, “Do you have any unconscious biases?” Sullivan spun the question masterfully, stating that he hopes he will be humble enough to recognize his own blind spots as he seeks to be impartial in his rulings.
* * *
James 3:1-12
Application: Tongues can be tools or weapons.
Like a lot of gifts, our tongues (really our ability to speak) can be used for good or ill. From the same mouth come blessings and curses.
Thirty years ago there was a public service poster on the CTA el cars in Chicago.
It showed a crying child with this message: Words hit as hard as a fist; watch what you say.
* * *
Mark 8:27-38
Application: A little background.
Well, the disciples still don’t get it. Immediately before this morning’s reading, Jesus feeds 4,000 and there are seven baskets of leftovers. The Pharisees ask Jesus for a sign, and he doesn’t give them one. He warns the disciples about the yeast of the Pharisees, but they think he’s pointing out they didn’t have any food with them.
“Hello? Guys, was not having food a problem, say, two weeks ago when I made five loaves and two fish feed 5,000? Or right before we got on this boat and I fed 4,000? You were there. You saw it. You picked up seven baskets of leftovers.”
“Do you still not understand?”
They don’t.
Perhaps we could question our Lord and Savior’s timing at this point. In today’s reading He asks them what people are saying about him, who is he? And they tell him Elijah, or a prophet, or John the Baptist -- that is, all people who will precede the Messiah. He asks the disciples to speak for themselves, and Peter famously says, “You are the Christ (Messiah)!” He doesn’t change Simon’s name to Peter in this reading. Once identified he tells them not to tell anyone. He’s been doing that for a while, but still, it seems that word of him is spreading.
On Christ’s timing, at this point, he tells them that he’s headed to Jerusalem, where he will undergo great suffering (see Isaiah reading) and be rejected by the religious authorities and be killed and after three days rise.
Peter rebuked him, but Jesus rebuked Peter right back, using the same language he used to exorcise demons. Thus he accurately identifies Peter, in this moment, as Satan.
Suddenly a crowd appears and Jesus tells everyone the cost of following him, and the cost of not following him. In a sort of “Choose ye this day,” parallel from Joshua.
* * *
The disciples keep not getting it/denial
Application: Two more times in Mark Jesus foretells his suffering and execution in Jerusalem. No sugar-coating, no equivocation. He tells the disciples plainly, openly.
Perhaps they do not want to believe it and actively deny the clear words. Perhaps they are so taken up in the moment that none of them really grasps what Jesus is saying.
Think of a time when something was so outlandish, crazy or difficult to accept that even when you were warned about a dire consequence, you still could not accept reality. As I am fond of pointing out -- the disciples had a front row seat at all the miracles Jesus performed, all his teaching, all his challenging those in power. They witnessed it; they lived it. They didn’t get it.
Their not getting it is an invitation to all of us to keep trying. Faith in Christ is hard. We’re going to make mistakes, we’re going to suffer; we’re going to wish we’d tamed our tongues. And the living God, in Christ, will continue to love us.
(Back to top of page)
WORSHIP
by George Reed
Call to Worship:
Leader: The heavens are telling the glory of God.
People: The firmament proclaims his handiwork.
Leader: Day to day pours forth speech.
People: Night to night declares knowledge.
Leader: The law of God is perfect, reviving the soul.
People: The decrees of God are sure, making wise the simple.
OR
Leader: Come and worship our God of creation.
People: We lift our voices to God Most High.
Leader: Let us dedicate our voices to God’s praise.
People: Only what is right and holy shall we speak.
Leader: Our voices should be holy here and in the world.
People: With love and grace we will speak to others.
Hymns and Songs:
I’ll Praise My Make While I’ve Breath
UMH: 60
H82: 429
PH: 253
CH: 20
Lift High the Cross
UMH: 159
H82: 473
PH: 371
AAHH: 242
NCH: 198
CH: 108
LBW: 377
ELA: 660
W&P: 287
Renew: 297
In the Cross of Christ I Glory
UMH: 295
H82: 441/442
PH: 84
NNBH: 104
NCH: 193/194
LBW: 104
ELA: 324
W&P: 264
AMEC: 153
O Jesus, I Have Promised
UMH: 396
H82: 655
PH: 388/389
NCH: 493
CH: 612
LBW: 503
ELA: 810
W&P: 458
AMEC: 280
Take My Life, and Let It Be
UMH: 399
H82: 707
PH: 391
NNBH: 213
NCH: 448
CH: 609
LBW: 406
ELA: 583/685
W&P: 433
AMEC: 292
Renew: 150
The Gift of Love
UMH: 408
AAHH: 522
CH: 526
W&P: 397
Renew: 155
Take Up Thy Cross
UMH: 415
H82: 675
PH: 393
LBW: 398
ELA: 667
W&P: 351
AMEC: 294
Open My Eyes, That I May See (v.3)
UMH: 454
PH: 324
NNBH: 218
CH: 586
W&P: 480
AMEC: 285
God, You Are My God
CCB: 60
I’m Gonna Sing When the Spirit Says Sing
CCB: 22
Music Resources Key:
UMH: United Methodist Hymnal
H82: The Hymnal 1982
PH: Presbyterian Hymnal
AAHH: African American Heritage Hymnal
NNBH: The New National Baptist Hymnal
NCH: The New Century Hymnal
CH: Chalice Hymnal
LBW: Lutheran Book of Worship
ELA: Evangelical Lutheran Worship
W&P: Worship & Praise
AMEC: African Methodist Episcopal Church Hymnal
STLT: Singing the Living Tradition
CCB: Cokesbury Chorus Book
Renew: Renew! Songs & Hymns for Blended Worship
Prayer for the Day / Collect
O God who spoke and creation came to be:
Grant that our voices my produce only good things
as we praise you and care for others;
through Jesus Christ our Savior. Amen.
OR
We bless you, O God, because by your word all creation came to be. Hear our praise today and help us to use our voices only for uplifting and caring for others. Amen.
Prayer of Confession
Leader: Let us confess to God and before one another our sins and especially our speaking in anger against others.
People: We confess to you, O God, and before one another that we have sinned. The voices that we raise to you in praise we use to gossip about and to malign our sisters and brothers. We disregard the fact that you created us all and that you love each one of us. Too often our tongues are sharp and biting instead of soft and healing. Forgive us and by the power of your Spirit help us to speak in love and grace at all times and to all people. Amen.
Leader: God desires to hear us speak words of healing to others as much as to hear our praises. Receive God’s love and grace and use them to speak kindly to others.
Prayers of the People
We praise you, O God, for your words are the words of life.
(The following paragraph may be used if a separate prayer of confession has not been used.)
We confess to you, O God, and before one another that we have sinned. The voices that we raise to you in praise we use to gossip about and to malign our sisters and brothers. We disregard the fact that you created us all and that you love each one of us. Too often our tongues are sharp and biting instead of soft and healing. Forgive us and by the power of your Spirit help us to speak in love and grace at all times and to all people.
We thank you for the words of love and care that you share with us through scripture and through those who speak out of a fullness of your love.
(Other thanksgivings may be offered.)
We pray for all your children in their need. We pray for those who are abused and put down by the words of others. We pray that we might truly offer ourselves to your service so that our words are never harmful to others.
(Other intercessions may be offered.)
All these things we ask in the Name of our Savior Jesus Christ who taught us to pray together saying:
Our Father....Amen.
(Or if the Our Father is not used at this point in the service)
All this we ask in the Name of the Blessed and Holy Trinity. Amen.
Children’s Sermon Starter
Show the children a knife that you have used to dig in the dirt. The dirtier it looks the better. Then get out some jelly and bread and tell them you are going to make a sandwich using that knife. When the object ask them why. If we don’t want to use a dirty knife for our food we also don’t want to use our tongues to say nasty things about other people and then to sing songs to God. Our tongues should only speak good things.
(Back to top of page)
CHILDREN'S SERMON
Sticks & Stones & Words
by Dean Feldmeyer
James 3:1-12
You will need:
• A hefty stick that could be used as a club.
• A rock about the size of a baseball or softball.
• A cardboard cut-out of the words: “WORDS.,” “STUPID,” & “UGLY.”
Hide your visual aids in a large shopping bag so they can be drawn out one at a time.
My grandma was a very smart lady…on most things.
She could bake a perfect cherry pie. She could sew clothing she made from sacks that potatoes came in. She could make a king size quilt from old scraps of cloth that weren’t good for anything.
She was pretty smart.
Except she had this one thing that she said that always made me wonder, you know? It made me wonder if she really was all that smart because this thing she said just didn’t sound right to me.
Here’s what she said: “Sticks and stones can break my bones but words can never hurt me.”
That’s it. That’s what she said.
So, what do y’all think? Is that true? Is it true that sticks and stones can break our bones but words can never hurt us?
I tell you what, let’s test it and see what happens, okay?
Okay, I just happened to bring some sticks and stones and words with me today so we can see.
Let’s see what we have, here.
Okay, here’s a stick. (Wave it about and then pass it around.)
Whoa! I don’t know about you but I think grandma was right on this one. This stick, if you hit someone really hard with it, could break a bone. What do you think?
Let’s see what else we have, here.
Here’s a stone. (Wave it about and then pass it around.)
So, what do you think? I don’t know if it could break a bone but it would sure hurt if someone hit you with it, don’t you think?
Okay, next item… (bring out the cardboard cut-out “WORDS”)
Okay, this says, “words.” Well, that doesn’t look all that dangerous to me.
(Wave it about and pass it around.) I don’t know if that could hurt anyone, it’s just….
Oh, wait, what’s this? (Reach into bag and pull out “STUPID” and “UGLY.”)
Well, now, let’s think for a moment. Can these two words hurt people? What if someone used these words to describe you? What if someone called you “stupid” or “ugly?” Would that hurt?
Yeah! It would, wouldn’t it.
It might not break our bones but it could break our heart, couldn’t it? That’s what it means to have a broken heart, you know. It means to have your feelings hurt really badly. And words can do that, can’t they.
So, my grandma was wrong, wasn’t she? Words can hurt.
That’s why James, the brother of Jesus, tells us in his letter in the Bible that we should be very careful about the things we say. Because words are important, they really do have power. Power to hurt and power to heal.
And Jesus taught us not to hurt each other but to, what?
To heal each other, to love each other. That’s right.
So that’s why, when I became an adult, I changed my grandma’s little saying. Now, when I say it, it goes like this: “Sticks and stones can break my bones and words can also hurt me.” That way I remember to be careful about the words I use.
And I hope you will, too.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
The Immediate Word, September 16, 2018, issue.
Copyright 2018 by CSS Publishing Company, Inc., Lima, Ohio.
All rights reserved. Subscribers to The Immediate Word service may print and use this material as it was intended in sermons and in worship and classroom settings only. No additional permission is required from the publisher for such use by subscribers only. Inquiries should be addressed to or to Permissions, CSS Publishing Company, Inc., 5450 N. Dixie Highway, Lima, Ohio 45807.
- The Power of Words and How to Use Them by Bethany Peerbolte -- As cyberbullying, shaming, and blaming continues to be a growing problem Christians can use the words from James to help shape a safer world wide web.
- Second Thoughts: Just Follow by Chris Keating -- Who do we say Colin Kaepernick is? A hipster activist or committed follower of Christ?
- Sermon illustrations by Mary Austin and Tom Willadsen.
- Worship resources by George Reed that focus on hurtful words, in particular, cyber bullying; the cost of discipleship.
- Sticks & Stones & Words Children’s sermon by Dean Feldmeyer -- Words can hurt as bad or worse than physical pain.
The Power of Words and How to Use Them
by Bethany Peerbolte
James 3:1-12, Mark 8:27-38, Proverbs 1:20-33, Psalm 19
Take a minute and re-read James 3:1-12 but replace tongue with thumb. Texting, tweeting, and commenting online have given our thumbs a brand-new power. James warns about guarding the power of the tongue and that applies to our thumbs as well. Social media use can mirror gambling addictions and new psychological syndromes are being identified as people compare their real-life problems to the perfect lives presented online by their friends. If this kind of input is affecting our society so immensely, Christians need to be aware of it and guard their output. As cyberbullying, shaming, and blaming continues to be a growing problem Christians can use the words from James to help shape a safer world wide web.
In the Scripture
The topic of “words” and the best way to use them is a common thread throughout the scripture selections this week. Wisdom offers words freely to inspire the simple, Isaiah finds humble courage in words, James warns that words have immense power, and Jesus cautions us about the intentions behind our words.
Proverbs 1:23 says that wisdom will make her words known to those who heed her and fear the lord. Wisdom holds out her hands filled with words, thoughts, and knowledge. This generous offer, however, is refused by some. Wisdom has little sympathy for those who refuse her words. Those who refuse will be mocked and jeered. Those who listen will live at ease.
The obvious choice then is to accept Wisdom’s gift of wise words. A life of ease sounds better than being mocked and jeered. However, Isaiah 50:4-9 shows that those who do use wise words will be mocked not by wisdom but by the world. For Isaiah the pestering is worth enduring because words awaken him to a sense of purpose. He can deal with the beard pulling and backstabbing if he can teach. Isaiah’s tone is fearless as he dares adversaries to challenge his words. Isaiah revels in the call to be a teacher but also remains humble enough to know he must keep listening. Isaiah says he listens every morning to new words, so he can be taught afresh. This step is so important it is presented at the beginning of section -- pointing to the importance of always being a student even when called to be a great teacher.
James 3:1-12 echoes the importance of remaining humble. There he warns that if you feel called to be a teacher you must also accept a harsher judgment. Teachers influence with their words and words have a power that needs to be respected. James weaves together images of a horse’s bridle, a ships rudder, and a spark starting a fire to show the power of words. Words guide us like that of a bridle in a horse’s mouth. Where our words point is the direction we will go. Our words are formed by a small muscle, our tongue, but control our whole being like a small rudder turning a massive ship. Then like one small spark can start a devastating forest fire, even the smallest of words can set into motion events that can change the course of our lives and beyond. If this is the power words have, then it is right to be mindful of what words we use in private or in public.
Jesus knew words and titles could get him and his disciples in trouble. In Mark 8:27-38, Jesus askes the disciples who they say he is. The word they choose to describe him is “messiah.” This word was dangerous, and Jesus orders them not to use the word with anyone else. Jesus was not the first person to which the word “Messiah” was ascribed. People claiming to be the messiah had a price on their head from that point forward. Jesus then gives a statement that Peter thinks goes against the rule to avoid the messiah word. Jesus describes what “the Son of Man” aka the Messiah must go through. Peter thinks Jesus is trying to be coy about claiming the word “messiah” and attempting to make people read between the lines of his statement. The events Jesus describes, suffering and being rejected, sound too close to what Jesus is experiencing and Peter worries the statement is just as bad as coming out and saying messiah. Peter has already heard Jesus describe himself as the Son of Man, and Jesus has publicly been rejected by the groups Jesus is talking about. When Peter confronts Jesus and tries to give advice Jesus pushes back on Peter’s objections. For Jesus, the warning to avoid using the word messiah was not about saving his life. Jesus knew most people were not ready to hear the whole truth and so the title of Messiah would not glorify God yet. Jesus uses words intentionally to help move the message forward. For the time, “Son of Man” is all the crowd can handle, but soon they will be able to hear “Messiah” and not scoff or run away.
Like the psalmist writes in Psalm 19 we should live so the words of our mouth and the meditation of our heart are acceptable to the Lord. This means choosing to seek out and accept wise words, remaining humble as we teach, respecting the power of a word, and being intentional about what words we use around different people.
In the News
Netflix has the teenage rom-com genre on lock right now. Their newest release is called Sierra Burgess is a Loser. In this movie, Sierra Burgess seems to be perfectly at peace with her loser status. She can even face insults from popular cheerleaders with confidence and a sense of humor... until she gets sucked into the crisis of wanting to impress a boy. She makes assumptions about what he wants and leads him into a Cyrano-type romance. Spoiler alert, it all blows up in her face. When the truth is revealed Sierra must reassess what is important and find her true self again. If only she had listened to the motto she tells herself in the mirror in the first scene “you are a magnificent beast” she may have not lost herself in the first place.
Sierra’s character is relatable because her problematic assumptions stem from the social pressure the internet places on users. Facebook Addiction Disorder is gaining attention in recent psychology studies. Findings show similar addiction patterns in social media use as gambling addicts. This could be because media sites are using similar tactics as casinos to integrate their product in the user’s life. Facebook Addiction may sound like a comedy bit, but more and more people are admitting to not having control over their use. A study in Norway created a scale to measure addiction levels. They also found people who are socially anxious suffer from Facebook addiction more often.
Constantly checking Facebook and other social media sites can seriously affect a person’s mental health. Since most users only post when life is good the image presented is distorted. When someone is suffering but sees all their friends enjoying and living amazing lives the depression is compounded. Some researchers believe social media and teen mental health are directly correlated. The Anxiety and Depression Association of America point to a few reasons teens suffer from social media usage. Teenagers have always wanted to be part of the crowd, but with social media the expectations are severely warped. The bar can be set so high teens lose hope of ever being able to connect with a common friend group. Cyberbullying is also a great concern. Insults can quickly reach a large population and taking back those words is impossible. Effects are seen in the bullied and the bullies. The victims are shamed and forced into social exile. The attackers often regret their words and have no way to effectively do damage control.
Celebrities are not immune to the bullying. This week Ariana Grande, a popular singer who has an influential social media presence, was forced to take a break from social media after her ex-boyfriend, Mac Miller, died of an apparent overdose. Fans of Mac Miller berated Ariana for leaving Miller when he was at rock bottom and blamed her for his death. The word attacks are not new, when Ariana and Mac originally broke up she was accused of pushing him to the edge and causing his DUI. Her response is a great example of speaking wisdom, remaining humble, respecting the power of words, and keeping good intentions.
In the Sermon
Depending on the struggles a community has with words there are several places a preacher can take this week’s lessons.
Mark: Social Media Breakdown
For a congregation that is familiar with social media it may be fun to be creative with the Mark passage. The story lends itself to a great Twitter or Facebook crisis as the disciples struggle to “post” the right words and Jesus polices their public word choice.
For example, you can describe the exchange as if it is a story pulled from social media.
Jesus Posts: “If you gave me a nickname what would it be?”
Mark’s reply: “Jesus John the Baptist”
Andrew’s reply: “Elijah”
Peter’s reply: “Messiah”
Private message from Jesus to Peter: “Messiah is kind of a dangerous word. Take that tweet down.” *Peter deletes reply*
Jesus Posts: “The Son of Man must suffer and be rejected by the elders, the chief priests, and the scribes, and be killed, and after three days rise again.”
Text from Peter to Jesus: “Dude you JUST asked me to take down the tweet about Messiah then you do a post about the Son of Man suffering and being rejected!? It’s the same thing. Stop it”
Jesus’ reply: “Get behind me Satan. I didn’t ask you to stop talking about me, just not to use the word Messiah. Some people aren’t ready to see me that way and I don’t want to freak them out.”
Jesus Posts: “If you want to follow me be humble and acknowledge your mistakes. Those who present perfect lives so they can get more followers are fake. Only those who are authentic can hang with me. What is the point to having thousands of followers and no real friends.”
Isaiah: Mirror Motto
Another option is to look at the way Isaiah found courage from words while also remaining a humble student. While Proverbs presents a warning about not accepting wise words, Isaiah points out that being the one speaking wisdom will also win you rejection. The world’s rejection is something Isaiah can face. He does not appear bothered by the back smacking or beard pulling. Since Isaiah finds his worth in God he is not fazed by the mean words being hurled at him. The final verse sounds like a mantra given to oneself in a mirror. The Lord is for me, no one can bring me down. They will become tired of teasing me if I just stay focused on God and not let their words affect me. Maybe Isaiah really believes them, or maybe like most mottos these are the wise words to which Isaiah aspires. In the Netflix original movie Sierra Burgess is a Loser, her mirror motto every morning is “You are a magnificent beast.” Her level of belief in this statement fluctuates but the motto reminds her of her best self. Some days the words inspire her to stand up against the bullies and dream big. Other days the motto is the only thing that convinces her to get out of bed. Sierra eventually realizes she is her best self when she stays connected to what she loves -- music -- and does not fight against who she was created to be.
James: Ancient Words for a Modern World
The verses from James give great images to work with as well. Replacing the word tongue with thumb is enough to put a modern spin on these ancient words of wisdom. Typing on our phones is a workout for our thumbs. What use to be restricted to grip power now has the power of words. Combined with the anonymity of usernames, words can be hurled without the risk of social consequences. Cyber bullying and shaming are a growing problem in societies with mass internet access. The repercussions of thoughtless words can be seen with spikes in anxiety, depression, and suicide. James’ words ring even more true in this new light.
Words have the power to lead us down a path. We can choose to put words in our mouth that are kind and thus lead us into loving, supportive relationships. We can also choose to put words of hate in our mouths, causing us to go down a path of solitude and darkness.
What may seem like a small thing, our thumbs have the power to steer our lives. They can write posts that shame and blame others, which then puts us in the chaotic waters of accusation and argument. Our thumbs can also post things that we love, leading us into waters we know and can navigate wisely.
Even kids know a small word, particularly the four-letter ones, can set off a huge reaction. There is a lot of talk about what words are appropriate and which are not. The debates may be wasted time on political correctness, or they may be the growing pains of a maturing society. Words are powerful, and James warns us to stay aware of which ones might spark a fire.
(Back to top of page)
SECOND THOUGHTS
Just Follow
by Chris Keating
Mark 8:27-38
When Colin Kaepernick communicates with his followers, he rarely says a word. He tweets fairly often, though usually he is merely retweeting what others have said. He shows up at events but is rarely interviewed. He appears on the cover of magazines like GQ though he never answered a single question. As other NFL players start their season, he remains shut out of football -- even though he’s still the topic of controversy.
Perhaps it is because Kaepernick prefers following rather than talking.
Since his decision in 2016 to kneel or sit instead of standing for the national anthem, Kaepernick has been at the center of a cultural storm. Kaepernick said that he would kneel during the playing of the Star-Spangled Banner in support of Black Lives Matter movement and to protest police violence against African-Americans. He quickly became the pariah of many fans and was voted the most disliked player in the NFL.
He keeps his reasons for kneeling simple and to the point, and he seems to understand that his protests come at a cost.
“I am not going to stand up to show pride in a flag for a country that oppresses black people and people of color,” he says. “To me, this is bigger than football and it would be selfish on my part to look the other way. There are bodies in the street and people getting paid leave and getting away with murder.”
His actions created an uproar, including the ire of President Trump, the commander-in-tweet. Kaepernick faced death threats and accusations. He was slandered by rumors, including insults condemning him as a Muslim. (It’s hard imagining why that actually matters; either way, it was was not true.) Since he opted out of his contract with the 49ers in 2017, Kaepernick has remained an unsigned free agent and a virtual untouchable in the league. After watching less experienced and less skilled players get contracts, he filed a lawsuit against the NFL alleging that the league has colluded against him, and it appears both sides will get their day in court.
But he’s the story that won’t end, even when he doesn’t say much. When it was announced that Kaepernick would be the standard bearer for Nike’s new ad campaign celebrating the 30th anniversary of their “Just Do It” slogan, controversies stirred once more. The ad features Kaepernick’s face on the screen with the words, “Believe in something. Even if it means sacrificing everything.” Not surprisingly, reaction to the ad campaign was swift since there are few things more volatile in the United States than race, politics, football and patriotism.
It’s a fair guess that was exactly what Nike was counting on when it signed Kaepernick. (Spoiler alert: their sales went up, even as some fans engaged in performative protests against the company by burning their Nike gear.) It’s also a fair guess that Kaepernick understood what the impact would be.
Plenty of people are arguing that Kaepernick has not sacrificed a thing. Go visit Arlington cemetery, they tell him. Listen to Gold Star families. Let them tell you about sacrifice. Social media ripples with these and other sentiments, though it’s interesting to note that it was a former Green Beret who advised Kaepernick to take a knee.
Who do we say that he is? A priggish former football player trying to grab the limelight, or a spokesperson for a new generation of activists? A millionaire thumbing his nose at the nation? A spoiled 30-year old who knows nothing about sacrifice? What exactly has Colin Kaepernick sacrificed?
Those who are confused by or unclear about Kaepernick’s actions are not paying attention.
He’s no John Lewis, but it does seem that the Kaepernick’s critics do not comprehend thee depth of his commitment. This has never been a protest of veterans. It has never been a denunciation of American values. He’s not saying a lot, but his silence is telling. Instead of holding a gigantic “John 3:16” sign, Kaepernick seems to be guided by a determined faithfulness.
Colin Kaepernick may be no John Lewis, but he is hardly a Tim Tebow, either.
Tebow, beloved in evangelical circles, is known for dropping to a knee in prayer following a successful pass. He’s a straight-shooting white evangelical known for his outspoken faith.
Kaepernick, for his part, doesn’t say much about his faith. His body is inked with tattoos across his body, including scripture verses like “God will guide me.” He put his faith into action by raising money for Somalia. He’s moved by a sense of injustice. And when he did speak about faith, he had this to say:
“My faith is the basis from where my game comes from. I’ve been very blessed to have the talent to play the game that I do and be successful at it. I think God guides me through every day and helps me take the right steps and has helped me to get to where I’m at. When I step on the field, I always say a prayer, say I am thankful to be able to wake up that morning and go out there and try to glorify the Lord with what I do on the field. I think if you go out and try to do that, no matter what you do on the field, you can be happy about what you did.”In Mark 8, Jesus turns to the disciples and asks them what people are saying about him. But he shrugs off opinion polls and rumor mills, and instead calls the disciples to follow pathways of faithfulness. He describes those pathways as a journey of self-emptying love, a sacrifice which will cost him everything.
Colin Kaepernick is not the Messiah, but it does not seem fair to say has not made sacrifices. Even if the countless hours of physical training he has endured are set aside, and even if the years of preparing to play football at the highest level of the game are disregarded, Kaepernick has exchanged playing the game he loves for something more. He seems intent on following where those commitments may lead -- and that will nearly always involves sacrifice.
Who do we say that he is? Time will tell. It’s quite possible Kaepernick’s greatest sacrifices will be off the field.
(Back to top of page)
ILLUSTRATIONS
From team member Mary Austin:
James 3:1-12
The Words We Use
“All of us make many mistakes,” proclaims this letter, in our speaking. We have that in common, no matter our level of education or wealth, and wherever we live in the world. Another thing we have in common is the word we all use most often. The most commonly used word in the world, regardless of location or national language, is “ok.” Ok is “one of the most frequently used and recognized words in the world. It is also one of the oddest expressions ever invented. But this oddity may in large measure account for its popularity. It's odd-looking. It's a word that looks and sounds like an abbreviation, an acronym. We generally spell it OK -- the spelling okay is relatively recent, and still relatively rare -- and we pronounce it not “ock” but by sounding the names of the letters O and K.”
The sound pops up in a number of languages: In Native American Choctaw: Okeh -- it is so. In Scottish, Och aye -- oh yes. In Greek, Ola kal, among others.
Linguist Allan Metcalf suggests that it has a place in our language because, as James urges, it’s not inflammatory. “But what makes OK so useful that we incorporate it into so many conversations?” he asks. “It's not that it was needed to “fill a gap” in any language. Before 1839, English speakers had “yes,” “good,” “fine,” “excellent,” “satisfactory,” and “all right.” What OK provided that the others did not was neutrality, a way to affirm or to express agreement without having to offer an opinion. Consider this dialogue: “Let's meet again this afternoon.” Reply: “OK.” Compare that with: “Let's meet again this afternoon.” Reply: “Wonderful!” or “If we must.” OK allows us to view a situation in simplest terms, just OK or not.”
Ok gives us a way to tone things down -- surely James would approve!
* * *
James 3:1-12
Hate Speech
In line with James’ admonition not to inflame people with our speech, tech and social media companies have been in the spotlight recently, as Congress -- and the American people -- ask questions about what we can trust online. Tech companies say that they are neutral, and critics argue back that neutrality about hate speech and untruth give a privileged place to falsehoods and division. Hateful speech, the thing James warns about, is sorted out by algorithms. They are, apparently, more easily fooled than humans are. “Hate speech detectors are easily tricked. A test of systems designed to identify offensive speech online shows that a few innocuous words or spelling errors can easily trip them up. The results cast doubt on the use of technology to tame online discourse.”
Facebook employs 15,000 people to look at false or hateful posts, and plans to use artificial intelligence to do just what James is urging us all to do. Perhaps we could just do it ourselves?
* * *
James 3:1-12
Extra Words
Even when we choose our words carefully, a lot depends on the listener. Our busy brains can take in “275 more words per minute than are actually spoken.” We fill the extra space with plans for dinner, answering email and adding context to what we think the other person said. Dr. Gail Brenner says, “Notice how when someone is speaking, you are partially listening, while simultaneously planning the rest of your day, replaying a meeting that just occurred, or deciding what you will say next. Paying attention is the cardinal rule for good listening. Hear the words, and let their meaning in. If your mind wanders, simply re-focus your attention on the conversation.”
If the speaker is careful with their words, as James advises, we as listeners are invited to be just as careful with our hearing. We might try this idea: “Be an explorer. Explorers are open and curious. They are inquisitive, without knowing what they will find. So what to do with all of that excess brain power? Focus on the speaker. Notice body language, tone of voice, and rate of speaking. Then look beneath the words to see what feelings and needs are being communicated. You never know what you might find.”
Wise speaking invites wise listening, as two parts of the same process.
* * * * * * * * *
From team member Tom Willadsen:
Psalm 116:1-9
Application: The psalmist sings God’s praise for deliverance from illness. Unlike nine out of ten lepers in the gospels, the psalmist remembers the Lord and lifts praise and gratitude
For delivering their soul from death;Three independent, but related ways that deliverance can be experienced.
their eyes from tears; and
their feet from stumbling;
v. 4 “Then I called on the name of the Lord ‘O Lord, I pray, save my life!’” recalls a classic joke:
An atheist was spending a quiet day fishing when suddenly his boat was attacked by the Loch Ness monster. In one easy flip, the beast tossed him and his boat high into the air. Then it opened its mouth to swallow both.
As the man sailed head over heels, he cried out, “Oh, my God! Help me!”
At once, the ferocious attack scene froze in place, and as the atheist hung in mid-air, a booming voice came down from the clouds, “I thought you didn't believe in Me!”
“Come on God, give me a break!” the man pleaded. “Two minutes ago I didn't believe in the Loch Ness monster either!”
* * *
Isaiah 50:4-9a
Application: The prophet calls for open ears and the tongue of teacher. The latter verses are often seen as foretelling Jesus’ suffering. The prophet says he will withstand physical abuse and insult.
The phrase “set my face like flint,” recalls the stoic determination of the young students who integrated Little Rock’s public schools in 1955.
* * *
Proverbs 1:20-33
Application: Wisdom personified scoffs at and mocks those who do not heed her, just as the Lord laughs at the plans of mortals in Psalm 2. Of all the laughter in the Bible, by far the most abundant type of laughter is laughter at someone or something.
In this passage Wisdom does not only mock, but also says she will not rescue the foolish who did not listen to her. A sort of cosmic “I told you so,” not exactly the sort of thing we typically associate with the Almighty, but vengeance is part of the whole of what the Bible reveals to use about the Lord.
The metaphor of “just desserts” continues with
…they shall eat the fruit of their way
And be sated with their own devices.
As it appears in the psalms, fear of the Lord is considered wisdom, but not Wisdom personified.
* * *
Psalm 19
Application: This psalm has always struck me as a sort of “wonder whiplash.” The first six verses are all about the beauty of the heavens and the wonders of the Lord that are displayed in the sky. I used to preach a sermon each year on recent discoveries in astronomy and how science, in building instruments that helped us discover increasingly small and distant objects in the heavens, points beyond the beauty of creation to the power of the creator. These first six verses make that case very solidly.
The rest of the psalm is much closer to earth. The second section, vv.7-13, praises the Lord’s instruction, law, decrees, precepts, commandments and ordinances. It’s as though the psalmist broke out Roget’s and used every possible synonym for “rules.” This is, of course, a sign of good Hebrew poetic style, where meanings rhyme, not sounds.
v. 14 “Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart
be acceptable to you,
O Lord, my rock and my redeemer.”
Many preachers use a variation on this verse as part of prayer immediately before starting a sermon. This verse very well could originate in another place; it does not really continue a theme from earlier in the psalm, and it’s a complete thought on its own.
* * *
The sweetness and value of God’s laws.
Application: The psalmist states that knowledge of the Lord’s commands are “to be desired more than gold,” and sweeter than honey, another gold thing.
At least one school of instruction used honey to teach students how to form letters. When the students got the shape right, they were permitted to eat their honey-shaped creation; a literal way that the student experienced the sweetness of learning.
* * *
But who can detect their errors?
Clear me from hidden faults.
Application: The psalmist knows that even recognizing the majesty of the Lord in the night sky, and being thankful for the guidance and instruction the Lord’s law provides, they may still have faults, flaws, sins, that they are not aware of.
Verse 12 is sort of a catch-all. The psalmist is humble enough to know that even their close self-examination and their scrupulous adherence to the law may not keep them righteous, that is innocent or blameless.
This verse recalls a humorous moment in the examination by the Senate of The Honorable Richard J. Sullivan earlier this summer, for an appellate court position. Sullivan was asked, “Do you have any unconscious biases?” Sullivan spun the question masterfully, stating that he hopes he will be humble enough to recognize his own blind spots as he seeks to be impartial in his rulings.
* * *
James 3:1-12
Application: Tongues can be tools or weapons.
Like a lot of gifts, our tongues (really our ability to speak) can be used for good or ill. From the same mouth come blessings and curses.
Thirty years ago there was a public service poster on the CTA el cars in Chicago.
It showed a crying child with this message: Words hit as hard as a fist; watch what you say.
* * *
Mark 8:27-38
Application: A little background.
Well, the disciples still don’t get it. Immediately before this morning’s reading, Jesus feeds 4,000 and there are seven baskets of leftovers. The Pharisees ask Jesus for a sign, and he doesn’t give them one. He warns the disciples about the yeast of the Pharisees, but they think he’s pointing out they didn’t have any food with them.
“Hello? Guys, was not having food a problem, say, two weeks ago when I made five loaves and two fish feed 5,000? Or right before we got on this boat and I fed 4,000? You were there. You saw it. You picked up seven baskets of leftovers.”
“Do you still not understand?”
They don’t.
Perhaps we could question our Lord and Savior’s timing at this point. In today’s reading He asks them what people are saying about him, who is he? And they tell him Elijah, or a prophet, or John the Baptist -- that is, all people who will precede the Messiah. He asks the disciples to speak for themselves, and Peter famously says, “You are the Christ (Messiah)!” He doesn’t change Simon’s name to Peter in this reading. Once identified he tells them not to tell anyone. He’s been doing that for a while, but still, it seems that word of him is spreading.
On Christ’s timing, at this point, he tells them that he’s headed to Jerusalem, where he will undergo great suffering (see Isaiah reading) and be rejected by the religious authorities and be killed and after three days rise.
Peter rebuked him, but Jesus rebuked Peter right back, using the same language he used to exorcise demons. Thus he accurately identifies Peter, in this moment, as Satan.
Suddenly a crowd appears and Jesus tells everyone the cost of following him, and the cost of not following him. In a sort of “Choose ye this day,” parallel from Joshua.
* * *
The disciples keep not getting it/denial
Application: Two more times in Mark Jesus foretells his suffering and execution in Jerusalem. No sugar-coating, no equivocation. He tells the disciples plainly, openly.
Perhaps they do not want to believe it and actively deny the clear words. Perhaps they are so taken up in the moment that none of them really grasps what Jesus is saying.
Think of a time when something was so outlandish, crazy or difficult to accept that even when you were warned about a dire consequence, you still could not accept reality. As I am fond of pointing out -- the disciples had a front row seat at all the miracles Jesus performed, all his teaching, all his challenging those in power. They witnessed it; they lived it. They didn’t get it.
Their not getting it is an invitation to all of us to keep trying. Faith in Christ is hard. We’re going to make mistakes, we’re going to suffer; we’re going to wish we’d tamed our tongues. And the living God, in Christ, will continue to love us.
(Back to top of page)
WORSHIP
by George Reed
Call to Worship:
Leader: The heavens are telling the glory of God.
People: The firmament proclaims his handiwork.
Leader: Day to day pours forth speech.
People: Night to night declares knowledge.
Leader: The law of God is perfect, reviving the soul.
People: The decrees of God are sure, making wise the simple.
OR
Leader: Come and worship our God of creation.
People: We lift our voices to God Most High.
Leader: Let us dedicate our voices to God’s praise.
People: Only what is right and holy shall we speak.
Leader: Our voices should be holy here and in the world.
People: With love and grace we will speak to others.
Hymns and Songs:
I’ll Praise My Make While I’ve Breath
UMH: 60
H82: 429
PH: 253
CH: 20
Lift High the Cross
UMH: 159
H82: 473
PH: 371
AAHH: 242
NCH: 198
CH: 108
LBW: 377
ELA: 660
W&P: 287
Renew: 297
In the Cross of Christ I Glory
UMH: 295
H82: 441/442
PH: 84
NNBH: 104
NCH: 193/194
LBW: 104
ELA: 324
W&P: 264
AMEC: 153
O Jesus, I Have Promised
UMH: 396
H82: 655
PH: 388/389
NCH: 493
CH: 612
LBW: 503
ELA: 810
W&P: 458
AMEC: 280
Take My Life, and Let It Be
UMH: 399
H82: 707
PH: 391
NNBH: 213
NCH: 448
CH: 609
LBW: 406
ELA: 583/685
W&P: 433
AMEC: 292
Renew: 150
The Gift of Love
UMH: 408
AAHH: 522
CH: 526
W&P: 397
Renew: 155
Take Up Thy Cross
UMH: 415
H82: 675
PH: 393
LBW: 398
ELA: 667
W&P: 351
AMEC: 294
Open My Eyes, That I May See (v.3)
UMH: 454
PH: 324
NNBH: 218
CH: 586
W&P: 480
AMEC: 285
God, You Are My God
CCB: 60
I’m Gonna Sing When the Spirit Says Sing
CCB: 22
Music Resources Key:
UMH: United Methodist Hymnal
H82: The Hymnal 1982
PH: Presbyterian Hymnal
AAHH: African American Heritage Hymnal
NNBH: The New National Baptist Hymnal
NCH: The New Century Hymnal
CH: Chalice Hymnal
LBW: Lutheran Book of Worship
ELA: Evangelical Lutheran Worship
W&P: Worship & Praise
AMEC: African Methodist Episcopal Church Hymnal
STLT: Singing the Living Tradition
CCB: Cokesbury Chorus Book
Renew: Renew! Songs & Hymns for Blended Worship
Prayer for the Day / Collect
O God who spoke and creation came to be:
Grant that our voices my produce only good things
as we praise you and care for others;
through Jesus Christ our Savior. Amen.
OR
We bless you, O God, because by your word all creation came to be. Hear our praise today and help us to use our voices only for uplifting and caring for others. Amen.
Prayer of Confession
Leader: Let us confess to God and before one another our sins and especially our speaking in anger against others.
People: We confess to you, O God, and before one another that we have sinned. The voices that we raise to you in praise we use to gossip about and to malign our sisters and brothers. We disregard the fact that you created us all and that you love each one of us. Too often our tongues are sharp and biting instead of soft and healing. Forgive us and by the power of your Spirit help us to speak in love and grace at all times and to all people. Amen.
Leader: God desires to hear us speak words of healing to others as much as to hear our praises. Receive God’s love and grace and use them to speak kindly to others.
Prayers of the People
We praise you, O God, for your words are the words of life.
(The following paragraph may be used if a separate prayer of confession has not been used.)
We confess to you, O God, and before one another that we have sinned. The voices that we raise to you in praise we use to gossip about and to malign our sisters and brothers. We disregard the fact that you created us all and that you love each one of us. Too often our tongues are sharp and biting instead of soft and healing. Forgive us and by the power of your Spirit help us to speak in love and grace at all times and to all people.
We thank you for the words of love and care that you share with us through scripture and through those who speak out of a fullness of your love.
(Other thanksgivings may be offered.)
We pray for all your children in their need. We pray for those who are abused and put down by the words of others. We pray that we might truly offer ourselves to your service so that our words are never harmful to others.
(Other intercessions may be offered.)
All these things we ask in the Name of our Savior Jesus Christ who taught us to pray together saying:
Our Father....Amen.
(Or if the Our Father is not used at this point in the service)
All this we ask in the Name of the Blessed and Holy Trinity. Amen.
Children’s Sermon Starter
Show the children a knife that you have used to dig in the dirt. The dirtier it looks the better. Then get out some jelly and bread and tell them you are going to make a sandwich using that knife. When the object ask them why. If we don’t want to use a dirty knife for our food we also don’t want to use our tongues to say nasty things about other people and then to sing songs to God. Our tongues should only speak good things.
(Back to top of page)
CHILDREN'S SERMON
Sticks & Stones & Words
by Dean Feldmeyer
James 3:1-12
You will need:
• A hefty stick that could be used as a club.
• A rock about the size of a baseball or softball.
• A cardboard cut-out of the words: “WORDS.,” “STUPID,” & “UGLY.”
Hide your visual aids in a large shopping bag so they can be drawn out one at a time.
My grandma was a very smart lady…on most things.
She could bake a perfect cherry pie. She could sew clothing she made from sacks that potatoes came in. She could make a king size quilt from old scraps of cloth that weren’t good for anything.
She was pretty smart.
Except she had this one thing that she said that always made me wonder, you know? It made me wonder if she really was all that smart because this thing she said just didn’t sound right to me.
Here’s what she said: “Sticks and stones can break my bones but words can never hurt me.”
That’s it. That’s what she said.
So, what do y’all think? Is that true? Is it true that sticks and stones can break our bones but words can never hurt us?
I tell you what, let’s test it and see what happens, okay?
Okay, I just happened to bring some sticks and stones and words with me today so we can see.
Let’s see what we have, here.
Okay, here’s a stick. (Wave it about and then pass it around.)
Whoa! I don’t know about you but I think grandma was right on this one. This stick, if you hit someone really hard with it, could break a bone. What do you think?
Let’s see what else we have, here.
Here’s a stone. (Wave it about and then pass it around.)
So, what do you think? I don’t know if it could break a bone but it would sure hurt if someone hit you with it, don’t you think?
Okay, next item… (bring out the cardboard cut-out “WORDS”)
Okay, this says, “words.” Well, that doesn’t look all that dangerous to me.
(Wave it about and pass it around.) I don’t know if that could hurt anyone, it’s just….
Oh, wait, what’s this? (Reach into bag and pull out “STUPID” and “UGLY.”)
Well, now, let’s think for a moment. Can these two words hurt people? What if someone used these words to describe you? What if someone called you “stupid” or “ugly?” Would that hurt?
Yeah! It would, wouldn’t it.
It might not break our bones but it could break our heart, couldn’t it? That’s what it means to have a broken heart, you know. It means to have your feelings hurt really badly. And words can do that, can’t they.
So, my grandma was wrong, wasn’t she? Words can hurt.
That’s why James, the brother of Jesus, tells us in his letter in the Bible that we should be very careful about the things we say. Because words are important, they really do have power. Power to hurt and power to heal.
And Jesus taught us not to hurt each other but to, what?
To heal each other, to love each other. That’s right.
So that’s why, when I became an adult, I changed my grandma’s little saying. Now, when I say it, it goes like this: “Sticks and stones can break my bones and words can also hurt me.” That way I remember to be careful about the words I use.
And I hope you will, too.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
The Immediate Word, September 16, 2018, issue.
Copyright 2018 by CSS Publishing Company, Inc., Lima, Ohio.
All rights reserved. Subscribers to The Immediate Word service may print and use this material as it was intended in sermons and in worship and classroom settings only. No additional permission is required from the publisher for such use by subscribers only. Inquiries should be addressed to or to Permissions, CSS Publishing Company, Inc., 5450 N. Dixie Highway, Lima, Ohio 45807.
