It seemed like just another Patrol (I’ve always thought they are a good-looking car). Nevertheless, it was just one car in hundreds that I had already seen on my trip.
As it passed me, it moved into my lane and in a few seconds had moved onto an exit lane and left the highway. A tiny sticker caught my eye on the back window.
Brats on board.
Now I have seen ‘Baby on board ’and ‘Bassinet on board’ and ‘Children on board’ and ‘Mum’s Taxi’ and even ‘Insanity is hereditary – I get it from my kids’. But I hadn’t spotted the brats sticker before. The sticker troubled me. I saw it for maybe one or two seconds, but I thought about it for a lot longer (just goes to show that stickers / advertising works).
Imagine being the children who usually sat in the car? Who purchased the sticker in the first place? Was it a joke? Was it a source of frustration or anger? Does it really matter? Yes and no. It seems insignificant on the on hand but on the other hand they are three words.
Words are vitally important. We can’t live without words. They shape our world and allow us to give expression to our thoughts and feelings. Words are precious. Words can be comforting and healing. Words can butcher and destroy. Words – handle with care – you never know who is really listening.
We use so many words – at home, at school, with our friends, at work, in our congregation, when we’re happy or sad, when we’re angry or angry. We hear so many words. We also see so many words – letters, faxes, emails, newsletters, reports, media. And when these words are directed to us or are about us then we listen and take them in (even if we say we don’t).
God also speaks to us. He uses words. Through his Word, God speaks to us in our daily situations. He guides us and helps us live. And there is one underlying message that God has gone to great pains to get through to us – I love you.
Reprinted from Queensland District Newsletter LCA October 1999 – written by Pastor George Samiec.