Words: Building Up or Breaking Down (2005)

In your divine plan for us, you have shown how very much people matter to you-so much so that you gave up the life of your only Son, so that we can be saved. How deeply your heart must be grieved when your people hurt each other, breaking down that which you have planted.

“Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.”

Forgive us for words that come from our mouths that do not give life to your people. Rather than kicking dirt on roots that are exposed and dry, help us to water that which you have already planted.

“Occasions for stumbling are bound to come, but woe to anyone by whom they come! It would be better for you if a millstone were hung around your neck and you were thrown into the sea than for you to cause one of these little ones to stumble.”

When our words have torn down a friend’s belief in themselves, forgive us.

When our silence has left a spouse withering inside, forgive us.
When our ways of manipulating or humiliating those around us has caused so much despair, forgive us.

Where an elderly person’s wisdom has not been valued, forgive us.
When a child has been dismissed and led to believe they don’t matter, forgive us.

“Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ has forgiven you.”

Where words have been used to hurt us, give us the healing breath of your Holy Spirit to breathe life into our souls again, so that we can be that breath to those around us.

God, you have given us the responsibility to nurture and care for one another, to build each other up, to love the people that matter so much to you. We stand today in confession of so many times when we missed opportunities to love. We stand today in commitment to follow your example, so that, the trees that you have planted in each one of your people can flourish and bear much fruit.

Rev. Amy L. Van Gunst, M. Div., M.A., L.P.C. (Scripture from Eph. 4:29, 32; Lk 17:2 NIV and NRSV)