What, if anything, sets humans apart from animals?
It was long thought that using tools was a uniquely human trait, but then scientists noted chimpanzees and even some birds using primitive tools to draw bugs out of trees. I was listening to a book speculating about what aliens, if they exist, might look like, based on what we can learn from Earth animals.
The author makes the argument that language is perhaps the most defining human characteristic. Other animals can certainly communicate in rudimentary ways, but only humans seem to have a true language. Interestingly, the author of the book, who is certainly not a Christian, notes that scientists can’t explain why humans developed language. He says that evolution doesn’t seem to explain anything beyond the rudimentary communication of animals.
As a Christian, I believe that humans are unique in that they, alone of all creatures on earth, are created in the image of God. I believe God is the source of our languages and the capability to speak at all (note, for example, the towel of Babel incident in Genesis 11).
And yet, this uniquely human gift of language can be used to hurt as well as to help. The book of James says, “With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse men, who have been made in God’s likeness. Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers, this should not be,” (James 3:9-10). I imagine most of us can remember a stinging remark from a parent, teacher, or classmate that has stuck with us for decades. Our words have the power to hurt or to heal.
Our society seems to so quickly default to insults, mudslinging, and anger. Whether in the increasingly divided world of politics, or local discussions about individuals or businesses, or perhaps even in your own family, we often speak first and think later. James tells us “My dear brothers, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, for man’s anger does not bring about the righteous life that God desires,” (James 1:19-20).
There is a place to be direct, to confront problems, and certainly to express disagreements! Often, though, what we mean can be lost in how we say it. When we insult and malign someone, we lose the chance to be heard by that person. How much better to speak the truth in love (Ephesians 4:15).
If our words reflect the image of the God who spoke the universe into existence, then maybe it’s time we stop using them to tear others down. Speak like someone made in God’s image, because you are! And so is the person you’re talking to.
John Reside
Senior Minister at First Christian Church
The opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of The Kewanee Voice.
