Back in the era before Texas law disbarred the use of pistols at 20 paces to solve quarrels, a duel was fought between John S. Nott and James Shott.  It was reported as follows:

“Nott was shot and Shott was not.  It was better to be Shott than Nott. 
  Some said that Nott was not shot, and Shott says that either the shot
that he shot at Nott was not shot, or that Nott was shot notwithstanding.”

Communication is one of the greatest gifts given to humankind.  Communication is central to life in community, which is the church.  From the book of Genesis we see how in the beginning God spoke creation into being – for each day, God said, “Let there be…and it was so.”  And John’s gospel speaks of cosmic origins this way, “In the beginning was the Word…”

Between Twitter and all the social media, words have been so over used and misused that we may never regain their good and appropriate use on the world scale.  But for us, in our time and place, as part of the Neighborhood Church – words truly matter as we share faith, ministry and life together.  We stay connected in all our relationships through the use of words. 

During this pandemic period of time, it is so important we stay in touch using emails, texts, handwritten notes and phone calls…with words.  What we say and how we say it can be uplifting, upbuilding, supportive, caring and loving.  What we say and how we say it can keep us connected to one another, our church and to God.  When we reach out to each other, what a blessing it is as the connection of Christ is shared among us. 

As we approach Thanksgiving and prepare to transition into the holiday season, things will be quite different this year.  Would you be willing to reach out and contact someone you haven’t contacted in the church since the Covid crisis began?  If each of us did that just once or twice, think of how many connections would be made in our church family.  You can check in to see how someone is doing or let them know you’ve missed seeing them and look forward to the day when we can come back together at the church or say how grateful you are for how they have been a blessing in your life. 

So, please take your “shot” at communicating and not doing nothing and we will be upbuilding one another in love.  Let’s not refrain from taking our shot – else the word will be for naught notwithstanding.

In Gratitude for words and the Word…and for each of you!

Rev. Dr. David D. Young
Senior Minister