How many sacraments do you practice? Different churches recognize different numbers, but they are typically few and well-defined in terms of what they consist of, and who may administer them, and when. Do you think of them as outward symbols of inward graces? Could they also be thought of as simple actions that reinforce your connection to the divine? Have you ever had an experience that met this description that didn’t meet the recognized categories of sacraments? Are you free to make up your own sacraments? You are free to do those practices that you find spiritually beneficial.

How do you view your status in the Kingdom of God? You know that you are saved by grace and not by works lest any man should boast. Does this trouble you? Would you prefer that it be something you earn? The Bible takes the concept further in saying you were bought with a price and you are not your own. This is reminiscent of the practice of slavery, common in Bible times, and those exchanged are not even party to the transaction, either as buyers or sellers. Do you find this offensive? Paul was not ashamed to refer to himself as my bondservant. He took it as a badge of honor. Do you?

Do you think of silence only as the absence of sound? If that is true then all silences are equal, but can a silence be profound? Have you ever been in a situation where the gravity of events prevented anyone from speaking? It is no trivial thing to break such a silence and it is a mistake to do so prematurely. Are you familiar with the passage about silence in heaven? Have you ever prayed with groaning too deep to be uttered? Everyone recognizes that there is meaning in words. Those who are spiritually mature can find meaning in silence. What does the silence speak to you?

Have you heard school kids say, sticks and stones will break my bones but words will never hurt me? This is a nice sentiment but it isn’t true. Words can be painful. Have you ever heard words of criticism or attack directed at you that were as painful as any injury? For they are an attack on your very identity and worth and value. Cruel words don’t leave visible marks or require bandages, but have you found that you need healing from attacks of this type as much as from a physical injury? Where do you go to get this?