Power of Your Voice

by Dr. James R. Brooks

What is the power of your voice?

More than you may know, thus be thoughtful in your speech.

We may ask, what difference do the words of a stranger make upon the lives of others?  or our own?

It is a 40 minute drive from my house to the wedding reception for the amazing couple.  Earlier in the afternoon, my son and I were at the wedding.  I had the honor to participate in the martial ceremony.  This couple and their families are dear to us. 

My arrival late is a distress to me.  Distressed am I to dare disappoint any to whom I have given my word of arrival.  Distressed due to the drama of the events of my leaving the launching point of my journey.  All driven to a point when I arrive at the gate to the parking lot where $20 is demanded of me to rest my car in a space.

Honestly, I was thankful that I had four $5 to hand over.  I would not have to search for an ATM.  I had enough to pay the bill.  Honestly, I was thankful and willing to hand it over as I stuck it out my hand to the attendant.

Was it the wedding gift she noticed on the passenger seat?  She asked if I arrived for the wedding.  Did she see the distress on my face?  Her hand reached out for the requisite monetary deposit.  

I nodded “yes” and verbalized the same.  I was there for a wedding.  With a smile of one bending the rules, she waved me in and withdrew her hand.  My car came to rest in a space with the four $5s still in my hand.

With a pause, I gave thanks to God for this blessing that brought joy into my world.  A world that had been beaten with chaos and controversy.  

A joyful moment that I spent with my saviour, Jesus Christ.

I thank my friend Amy for the reminder.  Blessings have been on my mind this week.  

More than once this week have I felt such blessings upon my life.  Especially in the face of the thorns of a chaotic and broken world.  These other stories are seemingly too tender to tell today.

What difference does your voice make in the life of a stranger?  My story may sound trite.  I assure you that it is nothing of the kind.  The power of the moment I shared transformed me.  It saved me from chagrin and collapse.

Your voice has power.  You can chose to witness to the love of Jesus Christ.  You can choose to change the life of another with your word and your deed.