The more he ordered them not to, the more they proclaimed it. Mark 7:36
Gossip is one of the most difficult problems encountered in building intentional Christian community in America. This sin is often communicated with more zeal and interest than open and honest dialogue. Indeed, those who work in offices have observed this principle: to excite interest, call a confidential meeting behind closed doors. To have a policy followed half-heartedly, announce it publicly.
The tendency to gossip is related to the universal bondage of sin. St. Paul said, “There is no just man, not even one; all have taken the wrong course . . . not one of them acts uprightly, no, not one . . . they use their tongue to deceive; the venom of asps lies behind their lips . . . Swiftly run their feet to shed blood; ruin and misery strew their course. The path of peace is unknown to them; the fear of God is not before their eyes.” (Rom 3:10-18)
Dietrich Bonhoeffer stated that a gossiper is the same as a murderer, only the device is different. One uses the tongue, the other resorts to an external tool, but the effect is the same: death, murder, and destruction.
How to Overcome the Tendency to Gossip
You may discuss all issues with a spiritual director or confessor. Otherwise, anything negative or critical should be said privately to the individual concerned. If you are not heard, then bring in another person involved in the issue. If there is no resolution, then bring in leadership. If you go outside this teaching from the gospels, then you are guilty of the grave sin of gossip.
We should reflect on this: Do we get more excited about a secret story than about an open truth? Among friends do we use the guise of conversation to gossip? If so, let us repent and obey scripture. When Jesus tells us not to say anything, let us simply be silent!
John Michael TalbotPhoto: Originally uploaded by Dano.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/mukluk/
