Looking back at the peaks and valleys of 2014, I realize that I dug some of those valleys myself. And I dug the valley not with a shovel, but my tongue.

Sometimes I spoke in haste without verifying all the facts. Other times my opinions blocked my view of other possibilities. I even jumped to a conclusion or two. In our speed-talking world it is easy to speak without really listening. Too often, the quick tongue creates a downward spiral into the valley of damaged relationships and misunderstandings.

The scriptures for this Sunday from James 1: 16-20; 23-26 and Matthew 18: 15-22 offer a different way. When it is our turn to speak, imagine if what we offer has been preceded by prayer? A healthy approach to communication is not driven by ego. Rather, it is spiritually grounded in truth. And this is not simply truth grounded in facts. It is truth that holds true to our deepest values. It is truth that holds true to the call of love: holding dear the well-being of others.

I believe that 2015 is your turn to participate in healthier communication. For example, if you hear a cycle of gossip starting in your work place, it is your turn to break the cycle. Or maybe you have a close friend who has become mired in negativity. Perhaps it is your turn to offer the right word at the right time to open your friend to new possibilities. These examples both require the courage to speak the truth in love.

MCCDC is here to partner with you in making healthy communication choices. In the message this Sunday I will suggest some tools that will help us spend more time on the mountain and less time in the valley when it comes to communication.

You will also receive a gift this Sunday: a beautifully designed button featuring “our tree” reflecting off the glass of our sanctuary imprinted with three questions to ask ourselves before we speak: “Is it kind? Is it necessary? Is it true?” These questions from “The Three Sieves of Socrates” provide a great tool for thinking before we speak.

See you Sunday at 9am and 11am!

Faithfully,
Rev. Dwayne

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