MEDITATION TIP —
22nd Sunday in Ordinary Time September 1, 2024

“Accept the Word that is planted in your hearts. This Word is able to save your souls.” (James 1:21).

　When we hear the phrase “the Word of God,” we first think of the words of the Bible. However, I believe that the Word of God is not limited to the Bible alone. Words that give life, words of encouragement, words of healing, etc. are also words that come from God, and it is no exaggeration to say that these are also God’s words or the Word of God. On the other hand, words of curse, foul language, words of contempt, etc. are words that kill people, and these words come from the devil.

　Human consciousness is influenced by words. Our lives are shaped by our words. Just as we need nutritious food to live, words that give life, positive and encouraging words, are nourishment and fuel for the heart. Conversely, foul words, curse words, and words that seem filled with poison have the power to destroy a person’s heart across time and space.

　The human brain, much like an internet search engine, seeks out things that match the words we speak. If we say words like “happy” or “grateful,” the brain will automatically search for and find things that make us feel happy and grateful. Conversely, if we say words like “hateful” or “angry,” the brain will automatically search for things that make us feel hateful and angry. When someone gives us advice, whether we respond with “Thank you for telling me” or “Mind your own business,” can change the outcome by 180 degrees. Our words have the power to either give us life or destroy us.

　The opening line of John's Gospel, “In the beginning was the Word,” is indeed true; first, there is the Word, and from there, what is perceived becomes visible and grows. Therefore, the “catchphrases” we unconsciously use in our daily lives become habits and significantly influence our character formation. “Habit is second nature” (St. Augustine). Habits shape our personality. By making positive and uplifting catchphrases like “Thank you,” “I’m happy,” and “That’s beautiful” a habit, we can make our lives brighter and more positive. Conversely, negative catchphrases can set our lives back. At the end of Mass, we say “Thanks be to God,” but it is impossible for someone who does not express gratitude to others to truly give thanks to God.

　Raising children and nurturing a community are much the same in that we must use positive and encouraging words to help others develop their strengths. By focusing on strengths, weaknesses are naturally absorbed. Conversely, if we only point out weaknesses, our words become negative, causing the other person to shrink back and lose motivation for future efforts. This leads to an attitude of criticizing others and eventually to the most unpro-ductive mindset of “blaming others.”

　Instead, we should recognize that there may be untapped potential within ourselves or within the community, and perhaps unexpected good qualities are hidden inside ourselves. It is only through positive and encouraging words that we can bring this awareness and practice, and direct ourselves and the community towards the future.

 　　　　　(Contribution by Father Akabae)