Word for Word
Take it from a former English teacher, the English language is weird. It is a conglomeration of words from different languages, a stew of rules and vocabulary and conjugations. And, like most things, all languages change over time. One reason they may change is from influences from other languages. Old English began to change in 1066 when the British Isles were invaded by William the Conqueror of Normandy. The years of French influence changed not only vocabulary but even the sounds used in pronunciation. Then came Middle English (think the Prologue to The Canterbury Tales) which morphed again into something much closer to our modern English, even though it was used by Shakespeare more than 400 years ago.
In recent years, we have seen a significant influence of technology on our language. New words are added, and we may not even notice. My grandparents wouldn't recognize the terms modem, trackpad, or meme. And, within the vocabulary we already have, the meanings of some words have changed. For instance, "mouse" used to be a rodent, but now it is a computer accessory. When I used to think about a "stream," I first thought about a small creek. Now I hope my wifi (another new word) is working so that I can binge-watch (also a new term) my favorite shows.
But I have noticed another trend lately, turning nouns that have been around for a long time into verbs. For example, we talk about having to "adult" or "people." Those are shortcuts, I guess, verbs taking the place of "have the responsibilities of an adult" or "interact socially with other people."
I wondered how this might play out with people in the Bible.
Have you ever "ark-ed?" Started a project that God was leading you to do, although others around you thought you were mad?
How about "Isaac-ed?" Followed God's will to lay something precious to you down?
Perhaps you have "big-fished." Ran from what God wanted you to do.
I'm pretty sure that at some point, you have "Gethsemane-d." Prayed earnestly to God for Him to change the circumstances, yet surrendered to his will.
Look at the words that we already use as both nouns and verbs – words related to Jesus. He sacrificed. He crossed. He discipled. He loved. He walked the walk and talked the talk. Jesus set a holy example for us using nouns and verbs – things we can see and things we can do.
12 When he had finished washing their feet, he put on his clothes and returned to his place. "Do you understand what I have done for you?" he asked them. 13 "You call me 'Teacher' and 'Lord,' and rightly so, for that is what I am. 14 Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another's feet. 15 I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you. 16 Very truly I tell you, no servant is greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him. 17 Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them.
John 13
Make your own vocabulary! I have asked myself what it would look like if someone "Cossondra-d." Put your name in the place of mine. What would that look like? I challenge you to think about that as you go through your week. Pay attention to ways you can reach out to others. You probably won't be called to wash someone's feet literally, but you may be prompted to sacrifice, help, and love.
