Trail Maker #29 The Power of Our Words

During this holiday season, we proclaim the good news; a message of hope and salvation through the birth of Jesus Christ. As Christians exchange greetings of "Merry Christmas" and "Joy to the World." These simple phrases carry the weight of a timeless narrative. They become more than just words; they are a celebration of God's ultimate expression of love manifested in a humble manger.

In this holiday season, a Christian perspective illuminates the profound significance of words.

As believers celebrate the birth of Christ, the power of words takes center stage in conveying messages of love, hope, and faith. The Bible itself begins with the transformative power of words: "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God" (John 1:1, NIV). Thus, words hold a sacred place in the Christian narrative, and during the holidays, their influence becomes even more pronounced.

The holidays often serve as a time for reconciliation and healing. Families and friends gather, love is rekindled, and estranged hearts seek forgiveness. No matter what has happened in the past we need to focus on grace and restoration. It is important to set boundaries with those individuals that may have toxic behaviors. Christ encourages in scripture to use words of forgiveness and compassion just as He did.

As the Apostle Paul urged in Colossians 3:13 (NIV), "Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you." Words spoken with humility, kindness, and a spirit of reconciliation hold the potential to mend fractured relationships and bring about the healing grace of Christ.

During the festivities, there are those who carry burdens and sorrows. Many of us have lost loved ones over the years. The grief that we are processing can hinder the joy of the holiday season. We need to even more at this time to offer the gift of encouragement through words. Proverbs 16:24 (NIV) captures this sentiment beautifully: "Gracious words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones."

Through intentional acts of kindness and thoughtful expressions, Christians can uplift those who are struggling, sharing the love of Christ through their words. Whether it be a simple note, a prayer, or an empathetic conversation, words can serve as a source of strength and solace, expressing the spirit of Christ's compassion.

In sharing the good news, Christians harness the power of words to uplift spirits and inspire faith. Through carols, sermons, and heartfelt conversations, believers amplify the message of Christmas, fostering a sense of unity and joy rooted in the transformative power of Christ's arrival.

The holiday season is a time of reflection and gratitude—a season to express thanksgiving for the blessings bestowed. From the warmth of family gatherings to the abundance of provision, Christians use words to articulate their gratitude towards God and one another. Psalm 100:4 (NIV) expresses this sentiment: "Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name."

Through prayers of gratitude, hymns of thanksgiving, and heartfelt expressions of appreciation, Christians magnify the Lord with words that acknowledge His faithfulness and benevolence. This act of verbalized thanksgiving not only honors God but also cultivates a spirit of contentment and joy within the community.

In the tapestry of holiday celebrations, words emerge as a powerful thread weaving together the Christian narrative. Whether proclaiming the good news, fostering reconciliation, offering encouragement, or expressing gratitude, the impact of words resonates far beyond the holiday season.

As believers embrace the power of words rooted in faith, they contribute to a legacy that echoes the eternal Word—the Word that became flesh and dwelt among us, full of grace and truth (John 1:14, NIV). In the spirit of Christmas, let our words be a testament to the transformative and redemptive power of Christ, whose birth we joyously celebrate.

From my home to yours, may this celebration of Christ’s birth show you more of His love, strength, hope and peace.