Speaking Words Aloud

There is power in speaking words aloud!

Although I knew it very well as a concept, it wasn't until I began to say out loud, "I will be moving to England and serving in The Methodist Church in Britain," that this concept became real--that this idea came to life.  As my own spoken words fell fresh upon my ears (and the ears of everyone on the listening end), I realized immediately that this actually meant that I would be moving to England...!!

Admittedly, there was a part of me that thought, "Oh my!"  Yes, there was a moment when I said to my husband, "Wow, this is really going to happen."  Obviously, England was the ultimate dream and goal; yet, somehow in speaking this aloud, it had new impact.  It had a new claim upon my life.  In uttering these words, I was uttering words of truth.  I would see, know, feel, understand, and respond in a different way after having heard myself say it.  I was reminded that there is power in speaking words aloud.

I am grateful for this reminder!

After all, speaking words aloud is pivotal for my covenant in ordained ministry.  So that I am faithful in my calling, I must be faithful in preaching--in speaking aloud the words of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.  There is certainly power in speaking these words.  Once they roll off the tongue and fall afresh, one hopes with all hope that there is new impact--that there is a new claim upon the lives of those on the listening end (and, yes, maybe even on the one speaking).

With distinct impact and refreshing claim upon my own life, I am humbled to hear myself say, "I will be moving to England and will be serving in The Methodist Church in Britain."  Yet, I know that this humility has little to do with me and everything to do with God's grace that opens hearts, forges a path, and grants courage for response.

I have discovered a new sense of responsibility in uttering words of truth, as there is promise that they will be both impacting and life-claiming.  Without a doubt, there is power in speaking words aloud!