Such simple words can mean so much!

Words are powerful. No matter how simple. No matter how few. They can work wonders. They tear at our emotions. They can make us laugh or cry. Or make us angry or discouraged. They can do SO much. And this weekend, a two year old reminded me of that by five simple words...

Luke and I were back in Kansas at the end of August and at church on Sunday at Grace Community Church (yay!). Midway through the morning, Tim brought 2 1/2 year old Noah over to where Luke and I were sitting. He gave me a hug and I started talking to him, asking him about his boots, his baby sister Ella, what he saw when he went to the rodeo, etc.

Then suddenly, he looked at me and said, "I miss you Aunt Serena."

And with those five short, simple, innocent words...my heart just melted.

From the time he was born to the moment I got married and moved, Noah and I were buddies. When Erinn and I were together, Noah was there. During the two years of Kid's Klub prep work and teaching every week. The summer I directed VBS. Wedding gown shopping. Church activities. Playing on a quilt in the park on my wedding day. Walking down the aisle as ringbearer in my wedding.

 

Teaching the story of baby Moses (Noah) floating down the river in a basket for Kid's Klub

 Helping throw away trash at the Learning Center

 

at Jim and Kim's wedding reception

wedding gown shopping in Kansas City

 

 playing at the park

 such a cute little ringbearer

 

Being only 2 1/2 years old, his little mind lives in the here and now. The memory of months ago fades away and is replaced by things happening at this moment. Even though I'm back to visit every few months, it sill takes Noah a little while to warm back up to me versus the days when I saw him week after week.

But his few, simple words had a profound impact on me that morning that he never knew or realized. Even thinking back on them now, brings tears to my eyes. And is a reminder to me how words can be used so powerfully.

With only a few words, I can tear my husband down or lift him up. Friendships can be destroyed or strengthened by what comes from my mouth. The words I choose to say can glorify Jesus Christ or do just the opposite. What I say greatly affects my husband, my family, my friends and strangers I meet. It's amazing how something so simple as a few words can create such a huge impact.

What a reminder to me to choose my words carefully. To be an encouragement to my husband and lift him up. To praise him, to honor him with my words. To give an encouraging word to others. To be kind and polite to others while running errands and shopping. To make sure the words coming from my mouth are respectful, kind and a reflection of Christ in my life. The words I choose to say can do so much!

Thank you, Noah, for that simple, yet so important reminder! And.....yes, I miss YOU too! And your mommy as well! :)