By: Brendon O’Dowd, head of school

Words. They do matter. They are important, and they have meaning. We use words in casual ways when we talk to friends and family members. We also use words when we are angry and sad or when we are celebrating a victory. All our words matter.

In chapel last week, I told the students that as a child, I learned, “Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me.” That couldn’t be further from the truth. We all know that words can cause great damage to relationships. The words that come from our mouths can cut a person deeply and leave lasting harm.

The Word Became Flesh

So, what can we do about our misuse of words?

The real miracle of the Christmas season is remembering that “the Word became flesh…” (John 1:14)

This Word is Jesus, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world, even our misuse of words. This Word is our Light and our Life, actively guiding our words for His good purposes.

If words do matter, why not make this Christmas reflect the true gift of the season? Let’s use words that build others up. Let’s use words that bring joy to a difficult and troubling world. Let’s use words that give thanks for all the blessings we have.

May you all enjoy a wonderful Christmas and New Year!