Word

Hi Friends,

If you’re new to our blog—welcome! We’re Julie and I (Michelle) are English teachers. We work with words. Day in, day out. What’s the word? Bird. Bird is the word. (I couldn’t resist!)

Words come at us from all directions. Our students have words to explain why assignments are late, what tech didn’t work, or to ask—sometimes urgently—when grades will be posted. Yet, they also share words that reflect on what they’ve learned, what they enjoyed about classes, and what they’re dreaming about for summer.

Teachers have words too. We have words for feedback, words for faculty planning meetings, words for developing assignments and curriculum, and words—often carefully chosen—for those particularly challenging students who help us grow. We have words for praise and thanksgiving, words for grace, and words we use to encourage others and ourselves on hard days.

Lately, I’ve been thinking about what I prioritize when I talk. When I’m down, my words tend to follow—negative, discouraged, sometimes impatient. Other times, I’m serious. Sometimes, I’m stern. And occasionally, I’m funny. At least, I think I’m funny, but I usually have to tell people when I’m joking so they know it’s okay to laugh. The words I'm thinking about today, though, are the words that share the message from God.

“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” —John 1:1 (NIV)

• "In the beginning" emphasizes the eternal existence of the Word since the beginning of creation.

• "Was the Word" refers to Jesus Christ, who is God's expression of himself and his message to humanity.

• "And the Word was with God" clarifies the relationship between the Word (Jesus) and God the Father--two parts of 1 whole,.

• "And the Word was God" acknowledges that Jesus is not a subordinate being, but rather God himself.

As I reflect on my words in all of their context this week, I am impressed upon to reflect on how the Word shapes my choices for meaningful choices this week. What tone I'm choosing, what messages I'm sending, and how my words can bring light or cast shadow. I'm working on speaking more intentionally, with the Word, to do good. To build up. To bring grace. Join me. We're not finished yet...

Yours in Christ,

Michelle