December 26, 2024 — 1 Day After My Head Exploded – Where’s the Tylenol?

December 26, 2024 — 1 Day After My Head Exploded – Where’s the Tylenol?

“For every species of beast and bird, of reptile and sea creature, can be tamed and has been tamed by the human species, but no one can tame the tongue—a restless evil, full of deadly poison. With it we bless the Lord and Father, and with it we curse those who are made in the likeness of God.” James 3:7-9

Bigfoot is Cranky Reverend’s favorite Cryptid. He is the king of mythical creatures. Perhaps there is a creature out there this Cranky Reverend has never taken a picture of – yet. Perhaps one day we will see space ships from another planet land on the lawn of the White House and welcome us into the age of Aquarius. And when that door opens, if the creatures from Mars look like Bigfoot won’t we be just a little flummoxed – and tongue-tied.

G-d has given us all something that can let people know they are loved, can comfort, can provide support – and it can also crush a spirit, and cause long-lasting damage to psyches….and it isn’t “Bigfoot”. That thing is the tongue. Sometimes we lash out at others without even thinking what our words might be doing to their mood, their confidence, or their spirit. We thoughtlessly criticize others, forgetting — at least for the moment — that those people who bear the brunt of our words are made in G-d’s image, and are just as valuable to G-d as we are. Remember, Christ died for them, too. The writer of James says: “…but no one can tame the tongue–a restless evil, full of deadly poison. With it we bless the Lord and Father, and with it we curse those who are made in the likeness of God.”

G-d takes our words very seriously, and so should we. This Cranky Reverend even follows some of the contents and messages posted by pastors on a denominational FaceBook page – and their comments can be just awful. G-d intends that our words be used to build up the Body of Christ, to restore us when needed, and to help us become the best that G-d has planned for us. Even pastors don’t understand that concept at times – especially when we should be trying to build-up one another, support one another and try to wade through murky waters together.

CR asks you to think about the words that you have said in the last 24 hours. How many of those words have been used to edify others? How many have probably hurt others? Pray to G-d that your words help, not hurt others.

Pastor Dave