Living in the Spirit
September 9, 2021
Scripture Reading: James 3:1-12
Not many of you should become teachers, my brothers and sisters, for you know that we who teach will be judged with greater strictness. For all of us make many mistakes. Anyone who makes no mistakes in speaking is perfect, able to keep the whole body in check with a bridle. If we put bits into the mouths of horses to make them obey us, we guide their whole bodies. Or look at ships: though they are so large that it takes strong winds to drive them, yet they are guided by a very small rudder wherever the will of the pilot directs. So also the tongue is a small member, yet it boasts of great exploits. –James 3:1-5a
I do not see myself as a teacher. I did teach 5th graders in Sunday School one year when I was in college that I think went well. However, I was a complete failure with 5-year-olds when I was asked to teach another Sunday School class. While on paper, I may be listed as a teacher at adult Sunday school and Bible study, I identify myself as a facilitator. Many in these groups are older, more studied, and wiser than I am. I make coffee, order materials, raise questions to keep the discussion going, and I have learned a lot over the years through these processes. I do often pray, guard my tongue, O Lord. Depending on the translation, there are at least 100 verses in the Bible that give this instruction. Some use the word “mouth” rather than “tongue.” I have also learned through experience that it is essential to gauge one’s timing when a comment might be apt but not appropriate at the moment. I am still working on that.
In times like these, dialogue among both people we know, and strangers is vital to address our world’s divisiveness. We are all afraid of the COVID virus, whether we want to admit it or not. There is much uncertainty regarding ending the war in Afghanistan. Many are too busy trying to survive while rebuilding following a significant storm and fires. What does the future hold? Are we now ready to address climate change? Can we give peace a chance in a world full of injustice and terrorists? What difference can I make toward addressing such complex issues?
God created us with brains and hearts and gifted each person with skills and talents. God created us to work together as one. The only way we can do that is to meet one another with respect and seek common ground for the common good, remembering Matthew 18:20, For where two or three are gathered in my name, I am there among them.’
Prayer:
BIND US TOGETHER, Lord, Bind us together
With cords that cannot be broken.
Bind us together, Lord,
Bind us together,
Bind us together with love*. Amen.
Refrain from song Bind us Together by Bob Gillman, see at https://www.worshiptogether.com/songs/bind-us-together-bob-gillman/
All scriptures are quoted from the New Revised Standard Version Bible: Anglicized Edition, copyright 1989, 1995, Division of Christian Education of the National Council of Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights are reserved.