There is such power in words.  I know this seems basic, but I think the more correct word is foundational (see what I did there?)  They give meaning to things.  They let us express and create.  For someone like me, whose mind is made up of grand things, but possesses no power to draw or play music, words become the only release. 

There is an old quote that people seem to love: “Preach the Gospel, use words if necessary.”  And it is cute, but I think it is also quite wrong.  Ignore for the moment that preach necessarily implies words, and just think of the foundation of that thought.  Actions speak louder than words.  This is true.  But when was the last time something was more convincing because it was louder?   I know people who do not know how to debate (see anyone on Fox News) seems to think the best strategy in any argument is to shout.  This is foolish.  So while actions may garner more attention than words, they are also, if accompanied by silence, much more prone to be misunderstood.  Think about this.  If the Gospel were not spoken of in words, the world would see many Christians who are “a good guy/girl,”  someone who “Is really moral,” and, “Does a lot of selfless things.”  And so on.  We have all heard it. 

THIS IS NOT THE GOSPEL!  It is not about being a good person!  It is about the fact I am not a good person, but through God’s grace and Christ’s atoning death on the cross I am able to live not for myself.  The actions (and yes, we need actions.  But not for their own sake, but to prove our faith and give credence to our words) are not the point.  The point is Christ.  Unless you are great at pantomime, it is dang tough to get your actions to proclaim the truth of the Gospel. 

I know this is just a cute little saying with good intentions.  Sure.  But I think too often we know people love Christian actions.  Charity, forgiveness, mercy, etc.  People hate to hear the Gospel.  They hate to be confronted with the truth they are sinful, unable to help themselves, and need a savior.  Moreover they hate that there is only one true God, one true Savior.  And so we act, and do not speak, and then spout some quote to justify how humble they are being (I know I am generalizing and judging harshly here, I am not trying to say this is everyone….I am saying this has been me before, and I do not believe I am alone). 

Words are scary.  They can be offensive.  They can leave us exposed.

And they are absolutely necessary.