Wednesday Wonder September 27, 2023

Language. We use it every day. It allows us to communicate with one another. It allows us to describe the world around us and those things we cannot understand. We use different languages throughout our world. We speak, write, sign language. All to allow us to open ourselves to the world.

What we call things matters. Names are important. There is something about being called by name. Someone knowing your name makes you feel more like you belong. This is why when someone is new to a situation, like a new church, getting to know names and have others know your name is so important. Remembering names can be difficult, but the look on a person’s face when you call them by name, especially if they don’t think you know them, can be priceless. Smiles widen. Sometimes the expression is pure surprise or pleasure. “I have been seen and remembered.” Using names is important.

These days we also know that the pronouns we use can be just as important. Again, it is about allowing another person to be seen, heard, appreciated, simply because you took the time to learn their name and who they truly are. Yes, it has become confusing, frustrating and at times completely overwhelming trying to keep things straight in an area that can feel like a constantly shifting sand dune. For a very long time we all thought we understood language and how to use it when it came to names and pronouns. Lately, it may not be feeling that way. I sometimes feel that I may not be up to the challenge to meet people where they are because I don’t understand people. Jesus always met people where they were. He told stories they could relate to, he went into their towns and homes and he listened. Listening is still the best way to meet people where they are. Listening to their stories is the best way to begin to understand. Understanding does not always mean we agree, or are comfortable, but it means we have tried to listen and value the person in front of us.

Names and pronouns have become a discussion point in the church too. Not only do we try to let all God’s children know they are valued, but we need to address God as well. Recently, I was asked about whether I am directed to use certain language around God. As a minister, I try to honour all that God has been, is and will be, for all of us.

The thing about language, it has its limits. Humans have language, but no language can truly describe God. The God we profess to love is more than we can ever describe using human language. Often, we are at a loss to find words to describe God, or what God means to us. For generations we have used ‘He’ to name God. It is comfortable and known. The idea of calling God anything else is strange. But in that naming we limit God. ‘He’ prompts an image that immediately limits the likelihood we will see any other image. I am not saying you have to change. I am saying, we need to consider what our language may convey to others.

God is so much more than we can imagine or describe with the language we use very day. God’s creation is the same way. Creation is so full of variation and awesomeness that we do not have enough language to fully and accurately describe it. And we likely all have our own way of describing it. How I describe it may not be the way you describe it. How you see it may not be the way I see it.

So, what are we poor mortals with our limited language to do? When in doubt, use a name. Learn the names of the people around you. Everyone loves being called by name. Call God by name. And God has many names: Creator, Parent, Father, Mother, Holy One and the list goes on. There will never be enough of them to truly and fully describe God. For God is always so much more.

And whatever your name, know that God has said, “I have called you by your name, and you are mine.”

Peace,
Rev. Mary-Jane