A Gentle Answer

A Gentle Answer

A gentle answer deflects anger,

Proverbs 15:1

Unlike the bustling areas of Lancaster, Intercourse, and Bird-in-Hand, Somerset County, Pennsylvania, is a quiet place. It was especially quiet when a friend and I visited one Sunday morning. Only a few vehicles were on the road, and every house was still. I guessed it was a church Sunday and all the Amish families were gathered in a local home. Imagine my surprise when I noticed a cluster of buggies gathered around a meeting house! I didn’t know that the Amish in this area held church services in meeting houses instead of in homes.

As we drove by, I imagined the Amish families sitting on wooden benches and raising their voices to hymns from the Ausbund. What a joyful moment that was for me, and it was even more special to share it with a friend. Only a few Amish communities have meeting houses.

One region where the Amish built meeting houses but kept the Old Order way of life in other respects was Somerset County, Pennsylvania. In 1880 and 1881 two districts voted favorably on having one meeting house. After the meeting house was built, the question remained as to what kind of seats to install. There was a difference of opinion: some thought backless benches were sufficient; others felt that the benches should have backs. During the week a few of the carpenters quickly but quietly built seats with backs and put them in the church. When the people arrived on Sunday an opponent said: “We have to do something.” With a sense of humor the bishop replied: “Ich denk sie hen uns gebodde” (“I think they have beat us to it”). A division was avoided.

What a difference a soft (and humorous) answer made. It makes me consider how we use our own words. Today that meeting house still stands, and many gather there often to worship God. The right answer at the right time not only has an impact on our current situation, but it can also influence generations to come.

Dear heavenly Father, even now my harsh words—and the harsh words of others—come to mind. May Your Holy Spirit fill me today, empowering me to answer even unkind words with grace and love.