Silence

James 3: 1 - 12

Words of thanksgiving and cursing pour out from the same mouth....

The 'sound of silence' is a thoughtful song that was a favorite in my teenage years. Silence has a 'sound' if only an uncomfortable one inside our noisy minds and hearts. James warns us that the tongue is small yet so very powerful in doing damage. Actually, sometimes, it is not only the 'cursing' that causes harm but even mindless chatter that leads to gossip. I believe this is much more common among people who have tempered their behavior to a sociably acceptable level.

Silence is a spiritual discipline that is never very comfortable for most Christians. A fully 'silent retreat' - unheard of to many. I have noticed that even on 'quiet days', people would not be comfortable to remain in companionable silence during mealtimes. People would like to 'catch up' especially in Asian culture where mealtimes are always times to 'fellowship'. However, there is a place for the discipline of silence. Very often the discomfort is due to the vulnerability we feel when not expressing ourselves verbally. Words somehow make us feel in control, in charge....to the extent that we may misuse them to 'control' others. This is the reason behind the fully 'silent retreat' - where we would like to allow each person time for their own process to emerge, without input or distraction (in the form of comments and advice) from others.The tongue being like a rudder, can steer one in all sorts of directions....away from where God is inviting. In daily life, we know how unhelpful some words can be - when others are too ready to give advice and even 'comfort' . We know how, sometimes, it is better to pray earnestly for another than to offer what may be jarring.

Silence has a beautiful sound when played in tune with the voice of the Spirit.