No Words – Devotion 41

For someone that writes a blog and speaks publicly, it is difficult to say that there are times when there are no words.  Words are used to describe beauty and strength, nature and awe inspiring views.  We use words to relay feelings of hurt and anger, along with excitement and joy.  Words can destroy another or can lift others.  But sometimes, words are simply not sufficient. There are times when there really are no words.

Words often fail us when we are overjoyed.  The birth of a child is one of those moments.  We may use words, but there really are none to express the birth of another living being.  Words also fail us when we are grieving.  There are none adequate for the feelings we have when we lose someone we love deeply.

The problem is not that there are no words for these times of our lives.  The problem is more often that we try to use them when we should not.  When we are supporting someone in their grief, it is often better to say nothing at all.  Simple expressions to let them know you are with them can be sufficient.  Presence means more than anything spoken.  Prayers that are offered are powerful.  But these do not require words.  Even our prayers can be offered in silent moments as we commune with God.  Sometimes there are no words.

The events of these past few months and especially this past week leave me speechless.  I try to write and do my best to express my support and solidarity to those that are suffering.  I do my best to let others know that they are not alone.  I know that there are many that are struggling with sickness, grief, hurt, anger and pain.  I hear you.  Ultimately, I have no words that are adequate.  I simply offer love.

Focus Scripture:

Philippians 1 (selected scriptures)

³ I thank my God every time I remember you, ⁴ constantly praying with joy in every one of my prayers for all of you, ⁵ because of your sharing in the gospel from the first day until now. ⁶ I am confident of this, that the one who began a good work among you will bring it to completion by the day of Jesus Christ.

⁹ And this is my prayer, that your love may overflow more and more with knowledge and full insight ¹⁰ to help you to determine what is best, so that in the day of Christ you may be pure and blameless, ¹¹ having produced the harvest of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ for the glory and praise of God.

Photos included in Devotions are captured by David Cain – The Cain Gallery.  Photos are available for sale by contacting The Cain Gallery