Language is always an issue as I travel internationally. I often find myself in situations where there are more than a dozen native languages represented in the midst of an English-speaking conference. Many are doing the hard work of communicating in a second language resulting in both difficult moments and humorous moments. Concepts are difficult to express and words are hard to find. Even within the same language groups misunderstandings occur! What to do?

There is a language that breaks down barriers when we come together as followers of Jesus. Hearts motivated by love express a universal language that covers the misunderstandings so common in verbal expression. Love has its own tone, which Peter understood when he said to his brothers and sisters in Christ,

Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. (I Peter 4:8 NIV) 

Words expressed in the language of love bestow blessing – moving confusion toward clarity and transforming misunderstanding into shalom. Join me this week in speaking from a heart of love.
 

 

Sharing the journey with you,

Bob Snyder