Simple Words

The story is told of a pastor who had just begun his tenure at a new church. Just two weeks into his new assignment, a man in the church who tended toward a rather negative disposition invited him to lunch.

The church member cut to the chase. “I think you’re full of bull,” he said to the pastor. Thinking on his feet at the same time harsh words were trying to knock him off balance, the pastor responded, “You must have been talking to my wife.” With those simple words the ice was broken, the chill thawed and a relationship that would last and flourish for years was born.

The power of simple words, spoken in the right tone and at the right time, especially in response to harshness, is truly awesome. God has given us no greater power than the power of the tongue to bless or to curse. Simple words can start wars or give birth to new hope. Simple words can wound deeply, permanently. Simple words, like, “I love you,” can heal wounds of the soul too deep to measure.

Simple words come to mind this morning as I think of this church’s response to the Spring Thank Offering. “Thank you.”

Yet again, this pastor has been put off balance by the overwhelming spirit of gratitude and generosity this Spring Thank Offering represents. Small gifts and large, they all say “Thanks be to God.” And, the blessings keep on rolling!

Thank you. Simple words, I know. But, what else can I say? Thank you! And, thank you again!