Saturday of Week 28 in Ordinary Time
Rm 4:13, 16-18
Lk 12:8-12
The Holy Spirit will teach you what you must say.
Words are very powerful. Many of us would have memories of specific phrases or words that greatly influenced our lives. Some of us would have received words of motivation which helped us stay on track. Some would have received words that helped us think things differently. Sadly, some words would have caused us so much pain that we are scarred for life. Words can start or stop wars. Words can bring life, or death.
Today’s reading is often used to emphasize that we need not fear when the time comes for us to give reasons for our faith, since the Holy Spirit will teach us what to say. I hope that we can also be reminded how this line is applicable for every single moment of encounter we have in our lives. Our words have so much influence in others that I think it makes sense for us to ask the Holy Spirit to guide our words each time.
Here are some points that I usually ask God, with regard to my words.
I pray that God will help me be sincere with my words. I offer communication training sessions and as part of what I do, I get the privilege to know the different communication techniques that also have impact on a person’s psychology. There are also words that help manage people’s emotions. What I realized is that people can sense the sincerity or insincerity beyond the communication technique used. People can feel if someone is using the technique to manipulate, or if they are being sincere. God is an excellent communicator and he is always sincere.
Next, I pray for charity. There are times that we definitely want to say something out of anger, or if we are frustrated. I pray for charity so I can choose the best words, and not succumb to the temptation to use the most hurtful words I know.
Also, I pray for me to be able to listen to the other person with an open heart and mind. Communication is both ways, and it involves active listening. Perhaps this is something that we might miss when we think of the quote in the Bible. I feel that it’s really not just about a one-way communication, but that the Holy Spirit helps us to be more of an active listener.
Finally, I pray that the Holy Spirit moves hearts in the conversation. At the end of the day, I have my limitations as a human being. So anything I lack, I entrust it to the Holy Spirit.
I pray that our words will be a source of life, enabled by the Holy Spirit.
(Today’s OXYGEN by Stephanie Villa)
Prayer: Dear Lord, please help me find it in my heart to be sincere and charitable.
Thanksgiving: Thank you, God, for giving life to words.
OXYGEN 
Leave a comment