Avoiding COVID-19 Causticity
Causticity - “The quality of being physically caustic; burning, corrosive. (figuratively) Being caustic in speech, humour etc.”
Public frustration is mounting over the continuing and increasing restrictions on our life and liberty as a result of Government and Alberta Health Authority directives. Some of them may seem to border on the draconian.
In addition, the global community is increasingly questioning the methods National Governments and the World Health Organization have employed to combat this Pandemic.
Sometimes, the old man inside of me wants to react in a carnal way, using words as my weapon.
It is essential that we as Believers, and especially as Believing Leaders, not add to the increasing flow of caustic vitriol present in social media.
We must remember 24/7 that we are representatives of the Lord Jesus Christ, and ambassadors of the Kingdom of Life, Love and Light. We must guard the integrity of our testimony at all costs. The public is carefully watching the language and actions of those who claim to be followers of Jesus. If they criticize us, and they will, let it be without justification.
The Apostle Paul reminds us:
Let your conversation be gracious and attractive so that you will have the right response for everyone.
Colossians 4:6 NLT
I am daily praying the words of Psalm 141:3 (NEB) over my own life:
Set a guard, O LORD, over my mouth; keep watch over the door of my lips!
When I am personally tempted to rant, I am constantly brought into check by the words attributed to the humorist Mark Twain when he stated:
It is better to remain silent and be thought a fool, than to open your mouth and remove all doubt.
Have a wonderful day and stay sweet for Jesus’ sake.
Al is an experienced pastor and counselor who works out of our ABNWT District Resource Centre in Edmonton as the Pastoral Care Coordinator. A pastor to the pastors, Al is a friend, mentor, and confidante to all.