During their elementary school years, we generally would pick our children up at the end of their day. Often we would ask them how their day went. The older would reply with a detailed description of almost every event, classroom topic, and lunchtime conversation. This commentary would take a while. The younger would simply respond, “fine,” “good,” or “okay.” We came to respect and treasure both response styles.
I recently had a relaxing conversation with one of our grandchildren. I was reminiscing about my childhood. I find myself doing that a lot. I was speaking about the small specialty shops that dotted the main street of my hometown sixty years ago. In particular, I was trying to describe a cobbler shop, the craft involved, the tools, the sounds, and the distinctive scent of the space. I described it the best I could, but I knew my description could not capture the reality in words. (When I think of heels and soles, I can’t help but think about healing and souls!)
Finding the words that accurately communicate our experience can be a challenge. We’ve heard people say that they were “at a loss for words” or that “words can’t describe” what happened or how they felt. We search for the “right words.”
Jesus used parables to teach invisible realities about the mystery of God’s Kingdom already present – captivating His listeners, enlivening their imaginations. “With many such parables he spoke the word to them as they were able to understand it.” (Mark 4:33)
In our interior life, our spiritual life, our life of prayer, there are some dimensions for which our words may fall short. St. Paul knew this.
“… for we do not know how to pray as we ought, but the Spirit itself intercedes …” (Romans 8:26)
I believe God’s Spirit guides our every prayer. We provide an open heart and mind; God provides all the rest.
We use words to express who we are and what we mean to each other. Words give shape and meaning to our prayer. When we pray together as a family, our voices become one voice united in one prayer.
As we look forward to Lent, we anticipate meditating on the words of Jesus that heal and console.
As we pray as a family, let us ask the Lord to help us find the words that deepen our faith and increase our understanding. Let us pray to continue to treasure our family conversations.