Acts 11:21-26,13:1-3
Psalm 97(98):1-6
Matthew 5:20-26
IN EVERY GOOD THING ENCOURAGE ONE ANOTHER
Adjectives serve to describe a person’s character or personality, and they can be either positive or negative, potentially encouraging or insulting. Conversely, nouns are used to identify a person and may carry a different connotation. While adjectives reflect a person’s expressions or qualities, nouns define what the person is. For example, calling someone a “son of encouragement” or “Barnabas” is generally considered a kind acknowledgment, whereas terms like “fool” or “renegade” may be seen as belittling or insulting.
This is why, in today’s gospel (Matthew 5:20-26), Jesus emphasizes the importance of mindful language when referring to others. Such words not only impact individuals but also serve as reflections of how we view the divine image in each person, since all humans are created in God’s likeness. Therefore, let us strive to choose our words thoughtfully, recognizing that our language can honor or diminish God’s creation. May God grant us the grace to see His presence in our brothers and sisters and to encourage them by acknowledging their God-given virtues. Amen. Wishing you a Spirit-filled Thursday!
Fr Joseph Osho
