This past Sunday began what’s known as Holy Week. Every day is holy to the Lord, so it’s not that this week, in particular, is commanded by the Lord to be set aside. All of us will work, go about our everyday routine, care for children, pay our bills, and live life as usual. However, we call it a holy week because of the marvelous events that unfolded in Scripture.

We are called to guard our mouths, for our words could destroy us, our families, our churches, and our society. Those who claim, "I just speak what's on my mind," don't display a virtuous characteristic but demonstrate a lack of self-control. Those who wear their emotions on their sleeves aren't "just being honest," but show they do not guard their mouth. How do we guard our mouths and tame our tongues?

Every so often, news headlines erupt with a hot topic that divides Christians. In the news last week, the Alabama Supreme Court ruled on a case that involved frozen embryos through the IVF process. A simple internet search will explain the process if you're unfamiliar with IVF. The Court's ruling acknowledged that each fertilized egg produced from IVF is a child. However, this sent shockwaves through the church.

Living at an intersection of various cultures has taught me many things. Some of these include similarities between all people. For instance, people enjoy laughing. God has created humor; people tell stories and jokes to make others laugh. Another example involves eating. Each group prides themselves on some dish or food from their nationality, and people enjoy eating. However, one of the most common similarities all cultures have is the use of words.

The story goes of a beautiful girl with fair skin, rosy lips, and dark hair. She held a beauty that none could compare. Likewise, her step-mom had a beauty that many envied. However, instead of being virtuous, she was quite the opposite. This tale of Snow White is familiar to many. However, this is also another story. It’s the story of many churches today. Read more about The Pragmatic Produce.