Joyful Ruins

Genesis 11:1

Now the whole world had one language and a common speech.

Genesis 1:6-7

If as one people speaking the same language they have begun to do this, than nothing they plan to do will be impossible for them. Come, let us go down and confuse their language so they will not understand each other.

I grew up hearing this story- that at one time, we all shared language. In response humanity decided to build a tower, arrogantly wanting to be like God.

I had a different thought while reading this this time.

If speaking one language led us to build for our selfish desires and God prevented this by creating different languages, perhaps our differences are a protection and blessing from God rather than something to be removed and fought against.

I have heard many a country wish their language and culture would be universally practiced.

Why can’t everyone speak English? or French? Why can’t everyone be American, choose only American values? (sorry to pick on America, but I live here so I hear it the most).

Well, it is pretty clear that when we perfectly align in culture, language,, and goals, we are tempted to stand on our own feet and wrong God.

Our differences, the color of our skin, the ways we see family, how our culture celebrates holidays, and the languages we speak, all keep us humble.

When I speak to someone who is just learning English ,it is a humble process for me and them.

I have to slow down and really see them. They have to be very aware and patient in their learning. Neither of us have thoughts of selfishness as we seek to communicate and understand one another.

The same humbling happens when I learn a different language or enter into a different culture. It is exciting but also a molding experience. I could never walk into a Spring festival celebration and tell my Chinese friends (or other Asian friends) that we need to raise the American flag and say the pledge of allegiance (Well, I could, but it would not go over well).

We are different and though these differences were partly created in response to our arrogance, I also believe they are a blessing form the Lord to keep us humble, loving, and always in a state of wonder.

I believe this applies even within one nation. We are not called to judge the differences of our neighbor, be them political, economical, tradition, AND we certainly are not called to force them to think our way only. We are called to accept these differences (I am not talking about sins), learn from them, and thank God for them.