Pastor's Message

Dr. Paul Gamber is a a former attorney and prosecutor called to serve God as a pastor, preacher, and teacher. He is a fellow in the Academy for Preaching and has done extensive post-graduate work in Christian Ethics.

AFFIRMING WORDS

Recently, I read a touching story that demonstrates the power words have to change a life -- a power that lies right in your hands. Mary had grown up knowing that she was different from the other kids, and she hated it. She was born with a cleft palate and had to bear the jokes and stares of cruel children who teased her non-stop about her misshaped lip, crooked nose, and garbled speech.

With all the teasing, Mary grew up hating the fact that she was "different". She was convinced that no one, outside her family, could ever love her ... until she entered Mrs. Leonard's class. Mrs. Leonard had a warm smile, a round face, and shiny brown hair. While everyone in her class liked her, Mary came to love Mrs. Leonard.

In the 1950's, it was common for teachers to give their children an annual hearing test. However, in Mary's case, in addition to her cleft palate, she was barely able to hear out of one ear. Determined not to let the other children have another "difference" to point out, she would cheat on the test each year. The "whisper test" was given by having a child walk to the classroom door, turn sideways, close one ear with a finger, and then repeat something which the teacher whispered. Mary turned her bad ear towards her teacher and pretended to cover her good ear. She knew that teachers would often say things like, "The sky is blue," or "What color are your shoes?" But not on that day. Surely, God put seven words in Mrs. Leonard's mouth that changed Mary's life forever. When the "Whisper test" came, Mary heard the words: "I wish you were my little girl."

I wish there was some way that I could communicate to you the incredible blessing which affirming words impart to those who are ignored, despairing and broken. I wish, too, that you could sit in my office, when I counsel, and hear the terrible damage that individuals received from not hearing affirming words. Our words have the power to melt a heart and set the course of a life.

If you need help thinking of some affirming words, let me give you some tips on words and phrases that can brighten every eye and life. These words are easy to say to any man, woman, and, especially every child who comes into your life.

· I'm proud of you.

· You're very special to me.

· I trust you.

· Well done.

· You're the best.

· I'm praying for you.

· I'm here for you.

· You're God's special gift to me.

That’s all it takes. If you don’t believe me, just try some of these words out today on your family, your friends, and especially on those who look like they really need to hear them.

Grace and Peace,

Paul