"Don't use foul or abusive language. Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them" —Ephesians 4:29 (NLT)
My dear brothers and sisters, once there was a friend who used inappropriate or dirty words in front of us. When he was reprimanded by another friend, it caused a big fight. The one who said the foul words stated that he was still within limits. While the other one who rejected him affirmed his argument that the words had gone too far and it would be very bad when heard by other people.
The case of inappropriate words was not discussed as a matter of debate in the church at Ephesus. Paul firmly commanded believers that one of the ways they can be grateful for the redemption and new life in Christ was to keep His word. Paul did not want them to be known by their old ways of life, including their language - that means lying, being disrespectful by throwing dirty words, spreading evil gossips, slandering, or anything that can hurt someone else and cause a dispute. Instead, he wanted the Church of Ephesus to be known by their words that would give grace and strengthen one another as needed.
Brothers and sisters, as followers of Jesus Christ, we should strive so that the words that flow in our hearts and come out of our mouths become a fountain of life. May all who hear our words receive life and abundant blessings. Amen.
Reflection on Ephesians 4: 25 – 32 by Fr. Risco Batbual, SVD
(Listen to the Podcast here)
No comments:
Post a Comment