Uncommon Wisdom: FIFTEENTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST, YEAR B
Title: Be Careful What You Say on the Campaign Trail
Scripture: James 1:17-27 (NRSVue)
“But be doers of the word, and not merely hearers who deceive themselves. For if any are hearers of the word and not doers, they are like those who look at themselves in a mirror; for they look at themselves and, on going away, immediately forget what they were like.” (James 1:22-24)
Introduction:
In the Epistle of James, we are called to a life of integrity that aligns our words with our actions and our faith with our deeds.
James challenges us to move beyond merely hearing the word of God to living it out in our everyday lives.
This message is especially relevant today as we observe the rhetoric from leaders like Kamala Harris and Donald Trump on the campaign trail. The way they speak about others, the words they choose, and the tone they set are potent reminders that our speech matters.
James calls us to speak differently and be careful with our words because our speech reflects our hearts and reveals our commitment to living out our faith.
I. The Power of Words: Words Reveal Character
James emphasizes the power of words, reminding us that our speech reflects our character. In James 1:19, he writes, “Let everyone be quick to listen, slow to speak, slow to anger.” This advice is crucial, especially in leadership and public discourse. Words have the power to build up or tear down, to heal, or to harm.
When we look at the campaign trail, we see a stark contrast in how words are used. Kamala Harris often speaks with a tone of hope, unity, and respect.
Her words are chosen carefully, reflecting a desire to uplift and encourage. On the other hand, Donald Trump’s rhetoric has often been marked by divisiveness and insult, using words to attack rather than to unify. As Christians, we are called to a higher standard. James reminds us that our words should reflect the goodness of God, showing truthfulness, humility, and love. Our speech should be gracefully seasoned, building others up rather than tearing them down.
II. The Responsibility of Speech: Words Have Consequences
James 1:26 states, “If any think they are religious and do not bridle their tongues but deceive their hearts, their religion is worthless.” Or "If you think you're all about that faith, but you can't keep your mouth in check, you're just fooling yourself—your faith ain't worth a thing."
This is a sobering reminder that our words have consequences. What we say can either validate or invalidate our witness as Christians.
On the campaign trail, the words spoken by leaders reach millions. They have the power to influence public opinion, shape policies, and even affect the lives of individuals. Kamala Harris has shown an awareness of this responsibility, often choosing her words to inspire and unite people. Donald Trump’s words, however, have sometimes sown discord and fear, demonstrating a lack of regard for the impact they may have. As followers of Christ, we must recognize the weight of our words. We cannot afford to be careless or thoughtless in our speech, for our words testify to our faith. When we speak, we should do so with the awareness that our words carry the power to bless or curse, to bring life, or to bring death.
III. The Call to Integrity: Words Must Align with Actions
Finally, James calls us to be doers of the word, not just hearers. He warns against the danger of hearing the word of God but not living it out, comparing it to someone who looks in a mirror and immediately forgets what they look like. Integrity in our speech means that our words must align with our actions.
On the campaign trail, this means that what is promised must be followed by action. Kamala Harris has often spoken about justice, equality, and the need for systemic change, and she has worked to back up those words with her policies and actions. On the other hand, there are times when Donald Trump’s words have not aligned with his actions, leading to a credibility gap. As Christians, we are called to live with integrity. Our words should not just be empty rhetoric but backed by our actions. We must live those values daily when we speak of love, justice, and mercy. Our faith is demonstrated not just in what we say but in what we do.
Closing Illustration: The Mirror of God’s Word
James uses the mirror metaphor to illustrate the importance of aligning words with actions. Just as we look into a mirror to see a reflection of ourselves, we must look into the word of God to see the reflection of who we are called to be. However, if we walk away from that mirror and forget what we have seen, we deceive ourselves.
On the campaign trail, leaders are constantly in the public eye, with every word and action scrutinized by the media and the public. This is a powerful reminder for all of us that we are constantly being watched—not just by others, but by God. Our speech and actions should be a reflection of our commitment to Christ. Just as Kamala Harris has used her platform to speak words of hope and unity, we, too, must use our words to reflect the love and truth of Christ. Let us be mindful of the power of our words and strive to live lives of integrity, where our speech aligns with our faith and actions with God's word. We are all on a campaign trail of a kind. You represent your family, home, and church when you enter the world. Many folks won't come to visit your church because they see something they don’t want to be around in you. Last week, as I watched the Democratic National Convention in Chicago, I was struck by the passion and energy during the state roll call. As each state was called, a deejay played a song that perfectly reflected the state’s identity and spirit. It made me wonder—what if we did something similar in the church? What if, when each household member was called to report to the Lord, a song played that captured the essence of who they are in Christ? What would we hear when your house or home was called?
The DNC roll call reminded me of the energy, passion, and commitment we must have as the church. Just as those delegates were inspired and motivated to represent their states with pride, we, too, must be inspired and motivated by God’s power to represent His kingdom with that same intensity. What is your campaign rally saying about you? “Run Your Name Run,” or are they saying Lock Him Up?
Conclusion:
As we go forth this week, remember James’s call to be careful with our words. Let us be different in a world where speech can be careless and divisive.
Let us speak with truth, love, and humility, always mindful of the impact our words can have.
Let us not just be hearers of the word but doers, living out our faith with integrity and letting our speech reflect the goodness and grace of our Lord. Amen.
