Taming the Tongue

AM Psalm 38 • PM Psalm 119:25-48
1 Kings 9:24-10:13 • James 3:1-12 • Mark 15:1-11

I am a primarily a word person—words as a way of expressing myself, of understanding others, as the primary medium of communication in my profession as a counselor. Today’s reading from James, Taming the Tongue, about the power of and the danger of words was new to me, or at least to my conscious mind. And it grabbed my attention.

I am full of regret right now because my words have hurt a family member whom I love very much. The intention behind my words—I love you, and I want to help—didn’t get communicated. I see now that my actual words could be interpreted as controlling and critical, “but no one can tame the tongue—a restless evil, full of deadly poison.” And I am left, for now, with the result that this person whom I love doesn’t want to spend time with me.

James goes on to say about the tongue, “With it we bless the Lord and Father, and with it we curse those who are made in the likeness of God. From the same mouth come blessing and cursing.” James says this should not be. But it seems to me like part of human nature that the same tongue, the same mind, the same voice can be compassionate and loving in one moment and cruel and judgmental the next. I see this so often on Facebook. As people insult each other I’m reminded of the last part of the baptismal covenant: Will you...respect the dignity of every human being? My wish is that both my intentions and my words will respect the dignity of whoever I’m communicating with. And that I can forgive myself and try to make amends whenever I fall short.

Written by Cathy Campbell

Cathy is a semi-retired professional counselor. She advocates for marginalized groups, especially LGBTQ people. Her voice in the choir is joyful if not always melodic.