I have a smooth black stone in my office that may look like an ordinary rock, but in fact, there is nothing ordinary about it at all. I have had it for many years as a reminder of God’s great love for us through the gift of His son Jesus Christ. More than 10 years ago now, I was given that stone at our Ash Wednesday service with this scripture attached: “Let him who is without sin cast the first stone.” (John 8:7)
We were asked to keep our stone in a visible place during the season of Lent to remind us not to judge one another, but to look at our own lives and the way we live them. It was powerful. I began to find comfort in the tangible reminder that I kept on my desk. We were to bring our stones back to lay on the altar at a special worship service before Easter, releasing the judgments we felt for others, as well as those we felt for ourselves. But what we heard from our congregation spun a common thread. We didn’t want to give up our stones! St. Luke’s purchased additional stones for us to leave on the altar. We found it a bit comical, yet poignant at the same time.
Although we do not live in a society where people are stoned as capital punishment, we still throw stones in other ways. Many people have become calloused to the feelings of others as they type messages of judgment in emails, text messages, or social media posts. Why is it easier to hit send on a written message or post than to address an issue or express an opinion to someone in person or on the phone? It’s as if the Internet has freed us up to say things to strangers that we wouldn’t dare say if we met them in person.
Most of you will remember the saying: “Sticks and stones will break my bones, but words will never harm me.” Although antiquated now, the obvious message is that you may hurt me by physical force but not by your insults. The truth is we do hurt each other with our words. Bullying is alive and well in our society and we have the power to beat each other down with words, but we also have the power to change.
During this season of Lent, I will be remembering the times in my life when I have harmed others with my words and asked them for forgiveness, but I will also strive to change. True courage comes from doing what is right, not picking up the next stone. We hold a great deal of power in our words. I pray that God will help me use them wisely and I invite you to join me on this journey!
Marsha Long, Director of Hospitality Ministry
