As I reflect back on conversations I’ve heard/had in the last year or so, I can’t help but think that Spanish is no longer the common second language. Rather it has been replaced by the ever so sly sarcasm. Now sarcasm in itself is fine even comical at times, but I’ve been really distressed by the level of sardonic language that I’ve experienced lately. When comments and facial expressions tell an underlying rude opinion, it’s gone too far. Hurtful sarcasm can cut deep at the recipient’s heart without the sender even realizing it.
I guess the whole reason that this has been bothering me so much lately is that when we cross that line where the jokes are no longer funny, we stop representing Christ. The words that are spilling out of our mouths are not uplifting, encouraging, or loving in any way. The scripture that stands out to me with this issue is Hebrews 10:24-25 “And let us consider how we may spur on one another toward love and good deeds. Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.” When we fail to do these things we are no longer showing Christ’s love to our friends and peers. And you might say “Well we’re just joking around, that’s how our friends always talk” but that’s not a good excuse. In fact, I don’t think there’s any acceptable excuse for sarcasm when one party is actually put down, disrespected, or emotionally hurt.
Don’t get me wrong, I engage in some simple sarcasm every now and then, but there is a limit. When you’re no longer evidently showing Christ, it’s time to step back and reevaluate your word vomit.
I guess this has been so heavy on my heart, because I don’t see why it’s so difficult for friends to just love each other.
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