5.26.23 - 1 Peter 3:15-17
How might you use words today to co-create worlds rather than tear them down?
Always be ready to make your defense to anyone who demands from you an accounting for the hope that is in you, yet do it with gentleness and respect. Maintain a good conscience so that, when you are maligned, those who abuse you for your good conduct in Christ may be put to shame. For it is better to suffer for doing good, if suffering should be God’s will, than to suffer for doing evil.
My high school literature teacher, as we studied ancient texts from all over the world, said to us: “texts are a double-edged sword.”
I nodded, pretending to understand, but it was not until much later in life when one of my emails was completely twisted and misinterpreted that I understood her words.
Regardless of the intention of the author, it is up to the reader to interpret the words.
Depending on their background, insecurities, and mood, our words can be used as tools to lift up or bring down people, encourage or crush others, for oppression or liberation.
This passage has been used for both. May we choose wisely how we interpret and use the words in our sacred texts.
Words can create and destroy worlds. What's one way to check your words today to make sure they're used for co-creation?
-- Claudia Agular Rubalcava