There is a weapon that predates “WMD” and is more lethal than any other weapon known to man. It has been known to start wars, foster hatred, ruin friendships, sparks national revolutions, soiled reputations, wrecked marriages and homes, brought schism in churches and driven more men out of the ministry. One cannot escape its proliferation; it can be found in every neighborhood, place of worship and home. It is literally right under your nose: the tongue.

The Lord's brother James, head of the Church in Jerusalem said: “If we put bits into the mouths of horses that they may obey us, we guide their whole bodies. Look at the ships also; though they are so great and are driven by strong winds, they are guided by a very small rudder wherever the will of the pilot directs. So the tongue is a little member and boasts of great things. How great a forest is set ablaze by a small fire! And the tongue is a fire. The tongue is an unrighteous world among our members, staining the whole body, setting on fire the cycle of nature, and set on fire by hell. For every kind of beast and bird, of reptile and sea creature, can be tamed and has been tamed by humankind, but no human being can tame the tongue -- a restless evil, full of deadly poison. With it we bless the Lord and Father, and with it we curse men, who are made in the likeness of God. From the same mouth come blessing and cursing. My brethren, this ought not to be so (James 3:3-10).”

Jesus instructs us: "But I tell you that men will have to give account on the day of judgment for every careless word they have spoken. For by your words you will be acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned (Matthew 12:36-37).”

What would be the impact on our world if Christians would be known for their ability to shun gossip? What if the only "secret" we shared was the Good News and the only people that we “talk about” was Jesus, the Blessed Mother and the saints? We would be unpopular with those who just want to cut others down and spread idle-talk, but those who “hunger and thirst for righteousness” (Matthew 5:6) would be drawn to Christ through us.

Saint Paul gave us sound advice when he said, “Let no corrupt word proceed out of your mouth, but what is good for necessary edification, that it may impart grace to the hearers” (Ephesians 4:29). The simple choice is always before you: your tongue can become a weapon of mass destruction or a vehicle of abundant blessing.

May God grant us the grace and courage to begin again in Him!

©2006 - Raymond J. Mastroberte
2/17/06